R270 000 TOYOTA HILUX FORFEITED TO THE STATE
MPUMALANGA: The vehicle used in the commission of crime valued at R270 000 was forfeited to the State.
The vehicle was seized in March 2018 when 30 plastic rolls containing 56 kg of heroine were found in a false compartment on the vehicle’s base after passing Nkomazi Toll Plaza in Kaapmuiden, en route to Nelspruit.
Two suspects, a Malawian and a South African nationals, were arrested by Kaapmuiden police after reacting on information received from a whistleblower.
The case was referred to the Hawks Nelspruit based Serious Organised Crime Investigation for further handling. During the Covid-19 era, both were released on bail. The Malawian national never set his foot in court again as he had absconded.
The case against the South African national was temporarily withdrawn, pending the rearrest of his partner in crime. The vehicle used was registered under a false address, and the owner could not be located.
“We commend the speedy reaction from members who received information and appreciate the role played by the whistleblower. We are also happy that the suspects have lost their tool of trade. We commit our resolve to deprive criminals of their proceeds and instrumentalities of crime. You cannot profit from crime, ” said the Mpumalanga Provincial Head of the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation, Major General Nico Gerber.
