Four Mozambican nationals sentenced for unwrought precious metals

Share the Article:

Four Mozambican nationals have been sentenced to 12 months imprisonment by the Klerksdorp Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday for possession of unwrought precious metals.

Mazuwa Zachariah Mthimkhulu, 18, Phillip Elia Mashawa, 18, Mateu Muhlanga, 18, and Phillip Sithole, 23 were found guilty on possession of unwrought precious metals and contravention of Immigration Act charges.

According to police spokesperson Warrant Officer Amogelang Malwetse, the accused were arrested by members of the Dr Kenneth Kaunda District Illicit Mining Task Team in July 2023.

This comes after the task team followed up on information about illegal mining activities that were reported to be taking place at Swartkoppies Farm, Ysterspruit area near Jouberton.

“Upon arrival at the scene, the police pounced on the suspects who were found busy processing suspected gold bearing material.

“After making a series of court appearances, the accused were ultimately convicted and sentenced on two counts.

“On count one – possession of unwrought precious metals – they sentenced to 12 months imprisonment. While on count two – contravention of Immigration Act – they were sentenced to 12 months.

“The sentences will run concurrently, therefore, the accused will serve 12 months in prison,” she said.

Meanwhile, a 40-year-old man was sentenced to life and 12 months imprisonments by the Tembisa Magistrates’ Court for raping and kidnapping a minor child.

The incident happened on February, 10, 2019, in Olifantsfontein when the child was walking home from playing next door, police spokesperson Captain Neldah Sekgobela said.

ALSO READ | Gauteng Crime Prevention Wardens recognised as peace officers

“The accused, Tshepiso Mokoena, called the child to collect a toy gun and a doll for her baby brother. The child was convinced and followed the accused not knowing that she is going to fall a prey to the evil man who on arrival, raped her.

“The victim managed to escape the accused’s shack running and crying. She was noticed by her mother who noticed that her child is not wearing her underwear and she was bleeding heavily. .

“The child was rushed to the hospital, only to find that she sustained serious injuries on her private part. The suspect was arrested after he was found hiding in the bushes by community members,” she added.

In Court, Captain Sekgobela stated that the suspect pleaded not guilty but Sergeant Kolobe Amia Kwenaite brought all the evidence that linked the accused to the case.