| Accused sentenced for illegal transportation of protected plants | |
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| Date Published: | 2024/07/19 |
| Description Details: | |
Media Statement NORTHERN CAPE – Mothibistad Regional Court convicted and sentenced (24) Tatenda Mawere, for both counts of transportation/possession of specially protected plants without a permit and contravention of Immigration Act 13 of 2002. Mawere was arrested on Tuesday, 20 February 2024, after Kathu based members of the Hawks Serious Organised Crime Investigation reacted to a call for assistance from Oliphantshoek SAPS (South African Police Service) members. Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation members arrived on the scene of a vehicle checkpoint conducted by SAPS members, where a white minibus taxi was stopped after attempting to drive through without being searched. During the search, a bag full of unknown plants was found inside the vehicle. Enquiries were made as to whom does the plants belong, and whether they had the necessary permits to carry and transport the plants? Police seized the plants and a vehicle valued at R900 000 for further investigation, this is after the accused could not give a satisfactory explanation. A comprehensive report on the value of the plants was sought from an expert and the value came to R6 million. Three suspects, two Zimbabwean nationals and one South African citizen were arrested for the offense. Tatenda Mawere pleaded guilty while his co-accused’s trial was separated and postponed to 19 August 2024. Both accused persons are currently out on bail. The accused was found guilty as charged and sentenced as follows: count one, a fine of R20 000 or two (2) years imprisonment, an additional sentence of five (5) years, which is wholly suspended for a period of five (5) years on condition that the accused is not convicted on the same charge again. Count two, (12) months imprisonment, wholly suspended for five (5) years on condition that he does not recommit same offense under period of suspension. The accused was further declared unfit to possess a firearm in terms of section 103 of the Firearm Control Act 60 of 2020. Ends
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