POTCHEFSTROOM – Ncedane Tlhati (41) was remanded in custody upon appearance before the Klerksdorp Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday, 22 November 2022, for robbery with a firearm. He will reappear before the same court on Tuesday, 29 November 2022 for a formal bail application.

The accused’s court appearance stems from his apprehension on Sunday, 20 November 2022, by members of Potchefstroom Flying Squad, who received information of a suspicious silver Volkswagen Polo, which was allegedly involved in robberies in the Dr Kenneth Kaunda District.

It is alleged that Tlhati and two accomplices robbed a 41-year-old shop owner and his friend whilst driving in a Toyota Quantum on the N14 road between Klerksdorp and Ventersdorp. The victims were approached from behind by the silver Polo which ultimately drove alongside their (victims) vehicle.  The suspects then pointed the victims with a firearm and instructed them to pull off the road. Two suspects approached the victims and robbed them of their cash. One of the suspects then drove off with the victims in the Quantum towards Khuma. The victims were ordered to get out of the vehicle next to the road and the suspect fled in the Quantum.

Meanwhile, Flying Squad members stopped the silver Volkswagen Polo close to Klerksdorp on the N14 road shortly after the robbery.  A substantial amount of coins were found in the vehicle and the driver was arrested after failing to account for the possession.

The possibility of linking the suspect and the vehicle to numerous robberies reported in the Dr Kenneth Kaunda District cannot be ruled out.

The Provincial Commissioner of North West, Lieutenant General Sello Kwena, thanked members for their bravery and diligence, which led to the arrest. He said that with more boots on the ground as part of the Safer Festive Season Operation Tlotla Molao, police will continue to work hard to ensure a safe and secure environment for the community.   

Source: South African Police Service