| 2024/11/26 |
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Media Statement
GAUTENG – Following meticulous Hawks’ Serious Organised Crime investigation Yakub Mohmed Said Kara (31) and Mubarak Alibhai Ahmed Rokad (44) were arrested on 19 November 2024. The initial intelligence driven operation took place on 12 July 2024. it led to the successful interception and arrest of two suspects involved in the transport of illicit cigarettes. The operation was initiated based on intelligence received regarding the transportation of illicit cigarettes from Limpopo Province, Messina to Klerksdorp, North West Province, via Soweto, Johannesburg The operation was a collaborative effort between the Hawks Serious Commercial Crime Investigation (SCCI) in Johannesburg and the JMPD Tactical Response Unit (TRU) undercover unit. On the day of the operation, observations were maintained at the N12 and Golden Highway off-ramp. The targeted Isuzu truck was identified and followed to Impala Road, Protea, where it was intercepted. A search of the vehicle revealed 51 boxes of illicit Remington Gold Blue brand cigarettes, each containing 50 cartons, totalling 25,500 cartons valued at approximately R1.2 million. The SARS Illicit Economic Activity Trade Unit was promptly summoned to the scene. The driver failed to produce documentation for the goods, confirming the illicit nature of the cigarettes. The Isuzu truck, identified as proceeds of crime, was seized. Matu Petrus Gobile (64) and Mahamed Juned Abdul Rahim Dhorat (19) were arrested. They were consequently granted bail of R3000 and R5000, respectively. The recently arrested pair made their first court appearance on Thursday, 14 November 2024, at the Specialized Commercial Crime Court, Palm Ridge. They were both granted bail of R10,000.00 each. The case has been postponed to 25 February 2025 for further proceedings, where they will be joined by their co-accused. The Gauteng Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation successful operation underscores the commitment and effectiveness of our law enforcement agencies in tackling illegal activities. We remain steadfast in our mission to ensure justice and protect the integrity of our economy, ” said Major General Ebrahim Kadwa. Ends
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