Four suspects, aged between 34 and 42, were released on warning by the Klerksdorp Magistrate’s Court this week. The four were arrested on Wednesday following reports that they went to a taxi rank construction site in Extension 19, Jouberton, in North West, and reportedly threatened employees. They demanded work and money from the site manager.

“The suspects were released on warning and will reappear in court on 20 August 2024,” said Mokgwabone. “Further investigations will be done.”

According to police spokesperson Brig. Sebata Mokgwabone, a joint operation by the Provincial Anti-Gang, Organised Crime Units and Klerksdorp Tactical Response Team arrested the suspects after a case was registered.

Mokgwabone says the four are facing charges of extortion and intimidation.

The new MEC for Community Safety and Transport Management in the North West, Wessels Morweng, has called on police to deal with criminals that are terrorising communities decisively.

One of the four suspects allegedly is a leader of the Al-Qaeda gang. Mokgwabone confirmed that the suspects were also linked to four other separate cases of murder, alleged to have been committed in October 2023 in Jouberton, three of the cases are allegedly ongoing.

‘These arrests will send a clear message’

North West Provincial Commissioner, Lt.Genl. Sello Kwena, has indicated that these arrests will send a clear message that criminality, including at construction sites, will not be tolerated.

According to the police, a Toyota Hilux and BMW were seized when the suspects were arrested.

OFM News/Joba Matsheng cgcg