NORTH WEST - David Phiri (39) was sentenced to ten years direct imprisonment on 31 August 2022 by the Rustenburg Magistrates’ Court for possession of explosives.

On 24 December 2019, the accused was arrested in Rustenburg by members of Crime Intelligence after he was found in possession of explosives consisting of shock tubes and blasting cartridges.

The matter was subsequently handed over to the Hawks' Serious Organised Crime Investigation, for further probing. Meanwhile, the accused was released on R1500 bail and made a series of court appearances until he was ultimately convicted.

The Provincial Head for the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation in North West, Major General Patrick Mbotho, welcomed the conviction and hailed the excellent work by the police and the National Prosecuting Authority.

Source: South African Police Service