On the evening of Sunday, 22 October 2023, nine armed men stormed a factory, says Free State police spokesperson Sgt Martin Xuma. A security guard’s cell phone was stolen, and a man was shot. 

Despite their best attempts, the suspects were unable to steal any money. The man who was shot received medical assistance and is in good health.

The police are urging anyone with information that could lead to the suspects’ arrest to contact Col Ben Bolsiek on 082 466 8530.

Meanwhile, two men (both 33) are scheduled to appear in Ga-Rankuwa Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday (26/8) to face charges of business robbery and extortion. They were arrested on Sunday following an investigation into a robbery the night before in Mothotlung, outside of Brits.

The suspects entered a tuckshop owned by a foreign national and accused him of illegally selling liquor. “One of the suspects allegedly demanded money, and the two men then took food items and cold drinks valued at R650 before they fled,” said North West police spokesperson Brig. Sabata Mokgwabone.

The incident was reported to the police, and the suspects were arrested after being linked to the crime. North West acting police commissioner Maj. Gen Patrick Asaneng emphasised the police would deal decisively with anyone involved in lawlessness, vigilantism, and extortion.

He encouraged community members to participate in local community policing forums instead of groups like Operation Dudula, which he said undermined the work of the police.

While the Constitution protects freedom of association and the right to protest, these rights do not extend to vigilante or criminal groups whose main objective is to promote anarchy and undermine the rule of law, Asaneng said.

OFM News mvh