LATEST INFORMATION: Sgt Olebogeng Samuel Molotsi (44) and Sgt Phokoile Thomas Plaaitjie (43) made a brief appearance before the Petrusville Magistrates Court on Thursday morning, 13 June.
WO Nomthandazo Mnisi, spokesperson of the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (Hawks), said the case was postponed to next week – Tuesday, 18 June – for formal bail application.
The accused remain in custody.
Background:
Two police sergeants based at the Petrusville Police Station in the Northern Cape were arrested on Wednesday, 12 June, for alleged theft of firearms and ammunition which took place at the police station on 6 November 2023.
WO Nomthandazo Mnisi, spokesperson of the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (Hawks), said a multi-disciplinary approach of members of the Hawks’ Serious Organised Crime Investigation team, Crime Intelligence and Kimberley Flying Squad, led to the arrest of the police officers, aged 44 and 43 years.
Mnisi said during November 2023, a complaint was received from the office of the provincial commissioner regarding theft of firearms and ammunition at the Petrusville Police Station. A case docket was opened with the Hawks for probing.
Firearms were later recovered in Senekal and Marquard in the Free State. An accused was arrested but was released on bail.
Investigation revealed that two police officers working at the Petrusville Police Station were involved during the theft of the state firearms. The matter was taken to the Director of Public Prosecutor for decision, who concluded that five suspects must stand trial for theft, and unlawful possession of firearms and ammunition.
Warrants of arrest were issued according to Section 43 of the Criminal Procedure Act for four suspects.
The two suspects from Petrusville are expected to appear before the Philipstown Magistrates Court on Thursday, 13 June.
