Brakpan SAPS station commander Brigadier Johanna Ngoma has applauded two local detectives for their dedication and exemplary commitment to the SAPS mandate of investigating crimes and effecting arrests.

Her commendation follows successful convictions secured in two separate cases. Detective Sergeant Kabelo Tala of the Brakpan Family Violence, Child Protection Services, and Sexual Offences Unit (FCS) investigated a Dawn Park rape case whereby a man (35) raped a 41-year-old mentally challenged woman in February 2024.

“The suspect allegedly lured the victim to his house in Dawn Park by promising to buy her a cold drink,” said Constable Audrey Buthelezi, Brakpan SAPS social crime prevention and communications officer.

“The victim did not give consent. The victim’s cousin came looking for her and found her in the suspect’s room.

“The victim told the cousin everything that happened, and that was when they went and reported it at the police station.”

The case was assigned to Tala, who diligently gathered evidence and ensured that the suspect was arrested and remained in police custody.

He ensured that the suspect’s bail application was denied until the day of the conviction. The Vosloorus Regional Court recently found the man guilty and sentenced him to life imprisonment for the rape charge.

Another success was secured by Detective Sergeant Ellias Nkadimeng from the Brakpan SAPS detective branch.

“Nkadimeng was assigned a case of robbery and kidnapping, which occurred in February 2024, whereby an Uber driver was held at gunpoint, kidnapped and robbed after he accepted a ride call and went to pick up a client, who is the suspect,” said Buthelezi.

“The suspect and his friends forced the Uber driver to drive to different locations, tried to use the victim’s bank card for purchases, and took his cellphone and money.”

Nkadimeng followed every lead with care and professionalism, ultimately leading to the arrest of the suspect, who was positively identified by the victim.

The detective opposed the suspect’s bail application to ensure that the suspect remained in police custody until the conviction.

The Brakpan Regional Court recently found the 37-year-old man guilty and sentenced him to 15 years’ imprisonment for robbery with aggravating circumstances, five years for kidnapping, and the court ordered that both sentences run concurrently.

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In addition, in terms of Section 103(1) of the Firearms Act 60 of 2000, the man was automatically declared unfit to possess a firearm.

Brakpan SAPS detective branch commander Colonel Eugene Scheepers and FCS Unit commander Captain Martha Beeslaar echoed the brigadier’s sentiments, thanking the two members for their excellence, perseverance and service.

They added that the successful convictions are not only a testament to the detectives’ efforts, but also a victory for every citizen who believes in the rule of law.

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