Foreigners arrested for their illegal dealings
They were arrested on March 3, after a lengthy high speed-chase between police and the suspects from Naas up towards the N4 toll gate.
MALALANE – Two foreign nationals are currently out on bail after being arrested for the possession of illegal cigarettes with an estimated street value of R237 100.
They were arrested on March 3, after a lengthy high speed-chase between police and the suspects from Naas up towards the N4 toll gate.
The suspects Mr Ishmael Chita (39) and Ms Ellis Kutjouripo, were traveling in a Colt loaded with 2 371 boxes of illegal cigarettes.
Speaking to Corridor Gazette, Malalane SAPS spokesman, Lt Bheki Nkosi, said they were still very committed to their promise to fight illegal activities and drug-trafficking.
“Even though these are cigarettes, for the very fact that they are being transported illegally, we are clamping down on them as well. The vehicle was spotted around Naas, and when police attempted to stop the bakkie, the suspects tried to flee. That was when the high-speed chase started,” Nkosi said.
Both accused appeared in the Komatipoort Magistrates’s Court on the same day. They were denied bail and remanded in police custody.
On Wednesday, March 4, they reappeared in the Malalane Periodical Court on charges of dealing with counterfeit goods. After hearing arguments from both the state and defense, magistrate Lucky Mhlanga, granted the suspects bail.
He said, “I have decided to grant you bail of R1 000 each, on condition you attend all court dates until the case is settled.”
The two accused are expected back in court on March 25.
