Three arrested for trespassing inside municipal building

MOKOPANE – Klaas Madlanato, attorney of the accused, said Sam Mokonyane, Bryner Nkwenya and Dan Dipela had a meeting with Mogalawena Municipality chief whip when they were arrested.

“When they entered the building they were stopped by two security guards who informed them that Mokonyane is not allowed in the building. The men then asked for a letter that stated Mokonyane is not welcome. One of the security guards went back and the accused thought he is going to fetch this letter, but he return with five more security guards.”

Madlanato said according to his clients the security guards push Mokonyane around and one of the guards assaulted Mokonyane with a knife.

Mokonyane, Nkwenya and Diplea went to the police station to open a case of assault against the security guards. “While they were at the police station, security guards of the municipality arrived to open a case of trespassing against Mokonyane. The security guards at the police station were not the same guards that were at the municipality.”

According to Madlanato the municipality guards were favored and helped first. “While my clients were waiting to be helped they were informed by Capt. Marcus Mofya that a charge of trespassing was open against all three, and they were arrested.”

Madlanato said the three accused appeared in Mokopane Magistrate court, Nwenya and Dipela were released on bail of R800 each and Mokonyane will remain in custody until 9 June when the case will be heard.

Malesela Selokela, Divisional Head Communications of Mogalakwena Municipality said: “The municipality are their for the community and can be visited by all. The reason why the accused were arrested is because one of them pulled a knife on one of the security guards. Marcus Mtombeni, Chief of Traffic and the Chief of Security working under Mtombeni can make a call for assistance when an employee of the municipality feels threatened by any public member.”

redaksie.bosvelder@nmgroup.co.za