According to SAPS statement: Kuruman Regional Court sentenced Moropo Mpe (44) to a fine of R50 000.00 or five years’ direct imprisonment, on condition that he pays a R20 000.00 fine, with R30 000.00 wholly suspended for a period of two years.
Mpe was arrested(amongst of those who were on the scene) as part of a group of three accused on 20 February 2024.
The other accused, Tichaona Mashava (24), was sentenced by the Mothibistad Regional Court in July 2024 on both counts of transportation/possession of specially protected plants without a permit and contravention of the Immigration Act 13 of 2002.
Mpe, Mawere and Mashava were arrested on Tuesday, 20 February 2024, after Kathu-based members of the Hawks’ Serious Organised Crime Investigation reacted to a call for assistance from Olifantshoek SAPS (South African Police Service) members.
Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation members arrived at 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(packed of blastics of unique trees) unknown plants was found inside the vehicle.
Enquiries were made as to whom the plants belonged, and whether they had the necessary permits to carry and transport them.
Police seized the plants and a vehicle valued at R900 000.00 for further investigation, after the accused could not give a satisfactory explanation.
The vehicle was handed back to the lawful owner, a South African commercial bank. A comprehensive report on the value of the plants was sought from an expert, and the value was determined to be R6 million.
Three suspects, two Zimbabwean nationals and one South African citizen, were arrested for the offence.Tichaona Mashava pleaded guilty, while his co-accused’s trial was separated.
Mpe and Mawere were granted bail by the court. Tatenda Mawere has absconded from court and is currently untraceable.
BY LUCKY SEANEGO
