By Staff Reporter
Edited by Jonk wa Mashamba
Picture by Thomo Nkgadima
news@alexreporter.co.za
Rapula Reuben Maidi (49) from Ikageng, Edward Lepokola (48) from Sebokeng, Bulelani Danti (29) from King Wiliams Town, Ludwe Gwedashe from Port Elizabeth, Thembani Mjelo (31) from East London, Marks Funeka (49) from Carletonville, Peter Thato Namane (51) from Soshanguve, all members of the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) appeared in Musina Magistrates Court today.
They were arrested on 21 and 22 June 2021 for allegedly crossing smuggled vehicles to Zimbabwe.
It is alleged that between 16 / 20 June 2019 and 24 February 2020 the suspects accepted a bribe of R15 000 to allow stolen vehicles to cross the border to Zimbabwe.
The Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (HAWKS) received information about SANDF members who were assisting vehicle smuggling syndicates, to smuggle suspected stolen vehicles through the Limpopo River.
The Hawks and the military proceeded with the undercover operation and the suspects were consequently arrested at Musina along the Limpopo river.
The SANDF members were immediately arrested by the military police.
The case was postponed to 28 June 2021 for a formal bail application.
