The case follows information received by law enforcement prior to 7 August 2024 regarding the alleged theft from a mine in Rustenburg.

According to reports from a local newspaper, the material was classified as suspected platinum group metals pending forensic and metallurgical analysis to confirm its exact composition.

On 7 August 2024, seven suspects were arrested in Rustenburg and Brits during a coordinated operation by the North West Hawks, assisted by the KwaZulu-Natal Hawks, DPCI Tactical Operations Management Section, SAPS Airwing and the Digital Forensic Laboratory.

Two suspects were later released after preliminary investigations found no link to the alleged crime.

The remaining five, Claudette du Plessis (36), George Sambo (37), Michael du Plessis (40), Alphigio Tavavinga (42) and Hendrick Viljoen (67) appeared in the Tlhabane Magistrates’ Court in the North West facing charges of illegal dealing in unwrought precious metals, theft, and illegal possession of unwrought precious metals.

Four accused were granted bail of R20,000 each.

Tavavinga was denied bail after the state successfully opposed his application on the basis that he is an undocumented foreign national.

According to Hawks spokesperson lieutenant colonel Tinyiko Mathebula, all five accused remain in the dock, and the matter has been postponed to 29 April 2026 for further proceedings.

Authorities have reiterated that unwrought precious metals raw minerals that have not yet been processed or refined are strictly regulated in South Africa to combat illegal mining, theft and smuggling.

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