In a significant move against organized crime, the Pretoria Asset Forfeiture Unit (AFU) of the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) has obtained its fourth preservation order, amounting to over R3 million, targeting assets linked to alleged illegal mining kingpins. The order, granted on January 8, 2024, by the Pretoria High Court under the Prevention of Organised Crime Act 121 of 1988, aims to freeze assets associated with key figures involved in illegal gold trading syndicates operating in Khutsong and Carletonville.
The individuals affected by this latest preservation order include Bethuel Ngobeni, Lerato Bathebeng, Poppy Mathongwane, Dumisani Moyo, Nhlanhla Leon Magwaca, Neo Susan Duba, and Thabo Sechele. These assets, comprising properties, vehicles, cash, and other valuables, are alleged proceeds of unlawful activities orchestrated by the syndicate.
The AFU’s success in obtaining this preservation order follows three previous orders secured on July 31, August 7, and August 30, 2023, respectively. Together, these orders encompass assets valued at over R20 million, including 55 vehicles, 10 properties in Khutsong and Carletonville, as well as cash and other valuable assets amounting to R91,000.
The investigation leading to these preservation orders stemmed from efforts by the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI), resulting in the arrest of six individuals described as illegal mining kingpins, along with their spouses. Notably, the syndicate comprises mainly foreign nationals from Zimbabwe and Mozambique, some of whom fraudulently obtained South African identity documents.
The next phase involves applying for forfeiture orders, which, if granted, will lead to the sale of the seized properties through public auction. Proceeds from these sales will be deposited into the Criminal Asset Recovery Account (CARA), furthering efforts to combat organized crime and its financial networks.
The trial of the nine accused individuals, facing charges including money laundering and racketeering, is scheduled to commence on July 24, 2024, at the Pretoria High Court, following its transfer from the Oberholzer Magistrates’ Court.
Advocate Sibongile Mzinyathi, the Director of Public Prosecutions, lauded the collaborative efforts of law enforcement agencies, particularly the DPCI, in tackling organized crime. He emphasized the significance of this preservation order as a testament to the NPA’s ongoing commitment to combatting organized crime at its core.
The AFU’s relentless pursuit of illegal mining syndicates underscores the broader efforts to dismantle criminal networks and uphold the rule of law in South Africa.