Media Statement from the Joint Operational Centre
Phokeng, North West
South African Police Service

11 August 2014

With the Platinum Belt Operation in full swing and significant successes being achieved, the long arm of the law continues to rapidly and effectively stretch to wayward criminals.

On Tuesday, 5 August 2014 tracking team members deployed as part of the Platinum Belt Operation tracked and linked Richard Lerumo to sixteen different cases. Cases include burglary, theft, theft out of / from motor vehicle and robbery, committed between December 2010 and May 2014 in Mahikeng and Rustenburg. The suspect also identified himself with different names including Thapelo, Kabelo, Raboroko, Simon and Samuel. He also used aliases like "Masheleng", "Tse pedi" and "Zama" to evade arrest.

Investigations have revealed that the suspect is also using different dates of birth and claims to have been born in Johannesburg, Rustenburg, Mahikeng and Meadowlands. Despite this, he was tracked to Correctional Services in Rustenburg where he is awaiting trial. He is due to appear in Mmabatho Magistrates' Court on Wednesday, 27 August 2014 on three counts of burglary.

The Platinum Belt Operation was launched on 16 June 2014 to enforce and maintain the rule of law; stabilisation and normalisation of the area and ensuring the community of the Platinum Belt are and feel safe. To date, over 1000 suspects have been brought to book as a result of day to day and platinum belt operations.

-End-

Media Enquiries:

Colonel Sabata Mokgwabone

Mobile: 082 496 9642

Twitter: @SAPoliceService #sapsNW #PlatinumBeltOps