Duo Arrested in Potchefstroom for House Robbery and Unlawful Firearm Possession

In a strategic joint operation conducted by Crime Intelligence, Mahikeng detectives, the Mahikeng Flying Squad, and Mmabatho Local Criminal Record Centre (LCRC), two suspects have been apprehended in connection with a series of crimes in the Ngaka Modiri Molema District. The accused, Zeno Readson (40) and Goitsemodimo Kgaswane (49), were taken into custody on the afternoon of Wednesday, 21 August 2024, facing charges of house robbery, unlawful possession of firearms, and unlawful possession of ammunition.

The suspects were notably charged after authorities capitalized on intelligence that pointed to individuals using a white Toyota Quantum to conduct business robberies in the area. It was during these pivotal moments that law enforcement identified and tracked the vehicle to a mall in Mmabatho, leading to a swift and decisive arrest upon the suspects' exit from the shopping center. The investigatory search extended to a location in Unit 13, where subsequently a 9 mm pistol and substances identified as KAT drugs were uncovered.

Further details emerged concerning the involvement of Readson, a Malawian foreign national. Reportedly, he had unlawfully entered a student residence in Mahikeng, brandishing a firearm. A confrontation ensued, during which a security officer engaged Readson, managing to injure and disarm him. Despite this altercation, Readson escaped the scene, only to be later detained by the authorities.

The arrested individuals made their initial court appearance at the Molopo Magistrates' Court in Mmabatho, where they were ordered to be held in custody until their upcoming hearing set for Monday, 26 August 2024. With the ongoing investigation, the arrest has brought temporary relief to residents who have been enduring the intimidation and threats posed by these alleged criminals.

Provincial Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Sello Kwena, has accoladed the combined effort of the various units involved in the operation, highlighting the importance of such collaborations in safeguarding communities and combating crime throughout the district.