Mozambican Civil War mortar bombs for sale
"We heard the bombs were from the old war in Mozambique"
TONGA – Seven suspects appeared in court on Wednesday, after being caught trying to sell mortar bombs with an estimated value of R3,7 million.
They were arrested by the Hawks in a sting operation with an undercover policeman.
The bombs are believed to be remnants from the civil war in Mozambique. Hawks spokesman, Capt Dineo Sekgotodi said they received a tip-off about people trying to sell explosives.
“We are still investigating what they were going to use them for,” said Sekgotodi.
The two women and five men were arrested in the Tonga area.
“Investigations established that these suspects are linked to gangs acquiring military explosives from Mozambique and smuggling them illegally through the border. We heard the bombs were from the old war in the country.”
Monalo Khoza (31), Thulisile Nkomo (39), Sfiso Bonge Shabangu (32), Ronnei Lwazi Shabangu (49), Bheki Shabangu, Godfrey Sempira and Skhumbuzo Khoza (46) appeared in the Tonga Magistrate’s Court on charges of unlawful possession of, and dealing in, explosives.
Each was granted bail of R1 500.
The case was postponed until July 31 for further investigation.
