A Lesotho national suspected of being part of a criminal network linked to violent crimes across South Africa has been arrested in Pretoria, the Hawks announced Friday.
The suspect was apprehended during an operation in the Olivenhoutbosch Extension 19 area by the Pretoria Tactical Operations Management Section (TOMS) following intelligence gathering on a group allegedly involved in cash-in-transit heists, ATM bombings, kidnappings, and armed robberies.
According to the Hawks’ statement, officers moved in when they spotted the suspects in the Shoba Maima section, but most fled in different directions. The lone suspect who was captured was found in possession of an unlicensed firearm.
A subsequent search of the suspect’s room yielded 22 cartridges, five 9mm rounds, a brown package suspected to contain explosives, and 16 small packets believed to be narcotics.
The arrest comes amid growing concerns about cross-border criminal networks operating within South Africa.
“The suspect will appear at Pretoria Magistrates Court on Monday, May 12, for unlicensed firearm and ammunition possession,” said Warrant-Officer Wendy Nkabi, spokesperson for the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation.
The Hawks did not confirm whether they anticipate further arrests as the investigation continues into the suspected criminal network.
