POTCHEFSTROOM – The South African Police Service (SAPS) management in the Province welcomed the arrest of a group of eight men for public violence, trespassing, malicious damage to property and intimidation.
The arrest followed an incident in which a group of approximately 15 men stormed Matlosana municipal offices in Klerksdorp on Wednesday, 26 July 2023. The men allegedly forced their way to the boardroom where they found the Mayor, Municipal Manager, Human Resources Manager and other officials in a meeting. The intruders who identified themselves as members of the so called 1818 gang from Kanana Location, demanded to be employed. Upon being informed that there were no vacancies, they apparently insulted the Human Resources Manager and hurled chairs at municipal officials leading to bodily injuries and damages to property.
Consequent to the incident, a crime intelligence led operation by the Anti-Gang Unit (AGU) was conducted. As a result, eight suspects handed themselves to the police. The accused; David Mbeloane (35), John Mokhele (38), Lehlohonolo Kgiba, Thabang Mpotle (36), Katiso Mokgatsi (37), Thabo Mafohla (39), Jabulane Sebeko (39) and Ephraim Mpedi (37) were all remanded in custody upon appearance before the Klerksdorp Magistrates’ Court on Monday, 31 July 2023. They are expected to reappear before the court today for formal bail application.
Investigation into the matter including tracing of other suspects, is underway.
The Provincial Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Sello Kwena said that the arrest for this brazen act of lawlessness displayed by the accused cannot be tolerated and will definitely serve as a deterrence to the would-be gangs. He urged the community to report acts of this nature to the police for necessary steps to be taken as gangs cannot be allowed to disrespect the rule of law and in the process terrorise the law abiding citizens.
Content retrieved from: https://www.saps.gov.za/newsroom/msspeechdetail.php?nid=47627.
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