MPUMALANGA – Sam Mshepan Leyane (26) was remanded in custody by the Barberton Magistrate’s Court on Wednesday, 19 October 2022 after he was traced and arrested by the Hawks Nelspruit based Serious Organised Crime Investigation on Tuesday, 18 October 2022 at Skukuza court for illegal possession of firearm and ammunition and attempted murder.

It is alleged that on 25 January 2022 the accused was driving along R38 road to Badplaas when his vehicle was intercepted and he failed to stop.  Along the way he abandoned the vehicle and the two occupants were arrested on the day in question.  During the search of the vehicle, the team discovered a disassembled, hunting rifle. Local Criminal Record Centre was summoned and lifted the finger prints. During the laboratory examination, the accused was linked through finger prints. The matter was brought before court and they issued warrant for his arrest. He was traced and arrested whilst at Skukuza court.

Leyane was charged accordingly and appeared before the Baberton Magistrate’s Court and he was remanded in custody to reappear on the 27 October 2022 for formal bail application. Investigation is continuing.

Source: South African Police Service