By Mashamba Media
news@alexreporter.co.za
The Provincial Commissioner of Police in Limpopo, Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe, has welcomed the successful conviction and sentencing of Matarapane Samuel Mokonyane (53), who was found guilty of possession of an unlicensed firearm and ammunition.
The conviction follows an incident that took place on 23 July 2021, at approximately 16:10, on the R579 road between Motetema and Groblersdal in the Sekhukhune District. Acting on a tip-off regarding alleged planned armed robbery, police swiftly intercepted a white Ford Ranger carrying two occupants.
Upon searching the vehicle and its occupants, officers found an unlicensed firearm with ammunition in the possession of the passenger, identified as Matarapane Samuel Mokonyane.
He was immediately arrested and taken into custody. He later appeared in court, where he was granted bail.
On Wednesday, 05 March 2025, Mokonyane appeared before the Nebo Regional Court, where he was convicted on the following charges:
Count 1: Possession of an unlicensed firearm
Count 2: Possession of unlicensed ammunition
The court sentenced Mokonyane to 15 years of direct imprisonment. Additionally, he was declared unfit to possess a firearm.
Hadebe commended the dedication and commitment of the Provincial Organised Crime Unit in ensuring that justice was served.
“This conviction sends a strong message that law enforcement remains steadfast in removing illegal firearms from our communities,” said Hadebe.
