A nationally operating crime syndicate has been stopped in its tracks with the sentencing of the mastermind behind the syndicate in the Randfontrein Magistrates’ Court.
According to Randfontein SAPS spokesperson, Captain Appel Ernst, the syndicate who dealt mostly in stolen vehicles and dagga, was run from Randfontein.
“During 2008 Warrant Officer Peet Venter from the West Rand Hawks started following up information regarding thefts of motor vehicles throughout South Africa,” says Ernst.
“He interviewed a suspect that was in custody and found that a syndicate was targeting sporting events.”
Ernst says that the standard modus operandi of the syndicate was to peruse sports publications which advertised bicycle races and other road racing events throughout the country.
“The suspects would use these events as cover, pretending to be participants and taking vehicles parked at these events.
“The investigation led the investigating officer to a suspect in the Randfontein area.”
According to Ernst, the investigation was intensified and during a controlled operation, which included undercover operatives, more vehicles were stolen at such events.
The vehicles were parked at different locations and left for a cool-down period.
Vehicles were reported stolen in Krugersdorp, Mafikeng, Klipriver, Vereeniging and all these vehicles were recovered in Randfontein.
During a joint operation between the Hawks, the Crime Intelligence Unit and the Randfontein SAPS, a 42-year-old man was found in possession of the stolen vehicles.
He was found also to be in possession of 6kg dagga.
A 38-year-old woman also was arrested for possession and dealing in dagga.
The man allegedly used her house to stash the dagga.
The case was heard by Magistrate Ettiene van Niekerk and Mr Lukas Smit prosecuted in the case.
“It took four years and five months to finalise the case, and I am pleased to say that owing to good investigation and excellent prosecution, the suspect, Pieter Erasmus was convicted on all five charges of theft of motor vehicles and sentenced to 28 years imprisonment.
“He also was convicted on the charges of possession of dagga and sentenced to R2 000 or two years imprisonment plus three years imprisonment suspended for five years.
“Effectively he will serve 15 years before he will be considered for parole.”
The female accused, Esther Oosthuizen, was found guilty of dealing in dagga.
She was sentenced to a R10 000 fine or four years imprisonment, suspended for five years on condition that she’s not convicted of the same offence during the suspension period.
“The management at the Randfontein SAPS congratulates Warrant Officer Venter for his diligence and proper investigation, which ensured the sentences. The investigation was done professionally,” says Ernst.
