The Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (Hawks) stated the convictions followed an examination into a burglary at the 2nd Luiperdsberg cell tower in Swellendam on October 18, 2024, throughout which 6 lithium batteries were taken.
The suspects were detained later on that early morning after cops members tracked their car along the N2 towards Caledon.
According to the Hawks, Swellendam cops performed initial examinations and recognized the car apparently utilized by the suspects taking a trip in the instructions of Caledon. They informed their equivalents in Caledon to be on the lookout.
At roughly 7am, authorities identified and stopped the automobile on the N2. It was taking a trip towards Cape Town and had 3 residents.
A search of the lorry revealed 3 lithium batteries and housebreaking executes.
Throughout the operation, 2 suspects tried to leave on foot while the motorist was detained. Authorities members pursued the other 2 males and consequently captured them.
The Hawks’ Economic Protected Resources (EPR) group in George took control of the examination following the arrests, with all 3 cases assigned to a single private investigator.
The Hawks stated bail was effectively opposed for all 3 implicated, who stayed in custody throughout the procedures.
On November 12, 2026, all 3 males, determined as Oswell Mafume, 38, Carlos Mhande, 27, and Omega Turugare, 36, pleaded guilty and were founded guilty of 2 counts each of damaging, damaging and ruining vital facilities.
They were likewise founded guilty of contravening Section 49( 1) of the Immigration Act.
The case has actually been delayed to January 22, 2027, for sentencing. All 3 males stay in custody.
The Hawks stated the operation included partnership in between its George EPR group, Swellendam and Caledon cops, Caledon Detective Services and personal security business Bidvest Protea Coin as part of continuous efforts to fight cable television theft and criminal offenses targeting necessary facilities.
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