| 2024/08/02 |
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Media Statement GAUTENG – Willmon Nkosinathi Mdluli (54), Zamikhaya Zamikhaya Fihlani (58), Phillip Phalane Maleka (56), Sonny Mbongeni Mabuza (54), Thuso Elias Moshoeshoe (64), Armando Raymond Zitha (65), Amos Timothy Gumede (56),Juluka Nowell Gamede (53), Sivuyile Rasta Mkhize (44), Nkosilungile Gibson Ntsimbi (47), Rowen Shadrack Ndou (40), Dumisani Enock Gumede (41), Malidane Abel Nhlebeya (63), Mphakatsi Mandule Mbhamali (34) and Linge Mgzotheni (47) have all been sentenced by the Oberholzer Magistrate’s Court on 31 July 2024 for theft, illegal possession of unwrought precious metals and transportation and conveyance of unwrought precious metals. On 11 June 2014 a take-down operation was conducted following information received about several employees that were believed to be involved in the theft and refining of gold bearing material at the metallurgical plant Sibanye Stillwater in Driefontein during the period August 2013 and June 2014. Covert cameras were installed during the investigation and (19) employees were identified as those involved which led to the arrests. The gold bearing material stolen was estimated to be worth over R2 million. All accused were later in June 2014 granted bail of between R15 000 and R20 000. Accused number (3) Keogotsitse Wadikgomo (58) has been circulated after a warrant of arrest was issued on 20 January 2022. The public is urged to report his whereabouts to the investigation officer in the case – Vanessa Meyer at 082 778 9155. All fifteen accused were on Wednesday 31 July 2024 convicted and sentenced to ten years direct imprisonments each for theft, illegal possession of unwrought precious metals and transportation and conveyance of unwrought precious metals. Meanwhile the Gauteng Provincial Head of the Hawks in Gauteng has praised both the investigator and the prosecutors for a splendid work done. “As our country grapples with the scourge of illegal mining. We welcome the conviction and sentence in a hope that the rogue elements in the mining sector will desist from being enablers to the illegal trade.’ He said. Ends
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