The Provincial Organised Crime, in collaboration with the Klerksdorp Tactical Response Team (TRT), successfully apprehended three robbery suspects in Kanana on Saturday, 12 November 2023.
This operation was conducted following extensive police investigations and the identification of suspects allegedly involved in a robbery case in Kanana during October 2023.
YOU MAY ALSO LIKE: Investigation Launched After Children Fall Ill And Die From ‘Poisoned Meal’
According to reports, the victim had responded to a Facebook advertisement on Wednesday, 11 October 2023, offering a Toyota Quantum Taxi at an unusually low price.
Travelling from Mahikeng to Kanana, the victim and his son met the seller at a house in Kanana, where they were shown the vehicle. The victim then transferred R150,000.00 through his banking app into the seller’s account.
Unexpectedly, the victim and his son were overpowered by a group of eight males claiming to be police officers. They assaulted the duo and confiscated their cell phones. One of the suspects used the victim’s phone to send cash via “Cash Send.”
The suspects also took the victim’s bank card and coerced him into revealing the PIN number, subsequently withdrawing money from an Automated Teller Machine (ATM).
After the ordeal, the victims reported the incident at the local police station. Tebogo Deco Chosi (32), Mpho Pitso (38), and Daniel Gideon Rwexane (36) appeared before the Orkney Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday, 14 November 2023.
They face charges of fraud, robbery, assault, and impersonating police officials. The suspects have been remanded in custody until their next court appearance on Tuesday, 21 November 2023.
Further investigations by the police have linked these suspects to three additional cases reported in Jouberton and Kanana during September and October.
In one of the robbery cases reported in Jouberton on Sunday, 24 September 2023, the police also arrested Seokama Abrams (50), Zamile Marote (51), and David Metlholo Mereko (60).
These individuals employed the same modus operandi of enticing unsuspecting victims through Facebook advertisements offering Toyota Quantum taxis.
The trio made their first appearance before the Klerksdorp Magistrates’ Court on Monday, 30 October 2023. They have also been remanded in custody and are expected to reappear before the same court in the near future.
Lieutenant General Sello Kwena, the North West Police Commissioner, commended the teams involved in these investigations for their dedication, thoroughness, and diligence, which ultimately led to the arrests.
YOU MAY ALSO LIKE: Cop Killed In Jewellery Heist At Pavilion Shopping Centre, Pregnant Woman Injured
He urged members of the community to exercise caution when responding to online advertisements and advised them to meet potential sellers or buyers in public places for their own safety.
These recent arrests serve as a reminder of the importance of vigilance and awareness in today’s digital age. It is crucial for individuals to exercise caution when engaging in online transactions and to prioritize personal safety above all else.
By remaining vigilant and taking necessary precautions, we can help prevent falling victim to such criminal activities.
