Polokwane businessman arrested over Ladgac co-founder’s burnt bakkie
A Polokwane businessman has been arrested in connection with the burning of a bakkie and signboard belonging to Ladgac co-owner Molebogeng Rachidi.
POLOKWANE – A high-profile Polokwane businessman is expected to appear in the Seshego and Polokwane Magistrate’s Courts on Tuesday for allegedly having a hand in the burning of a vehicle belonging to Ladgac co-owner Molebogeng Rachidi on June 28.
The 51-year-old was arrested on the morning of July 13 at his home in Welgelegen by the provincial police unit in Limpopo.
Police probe and evidence trail
Review Online had been informed about the probe in recent weeks, with a high police presence at his home this morning, followed by a trail of visits, including his office in Zone 1, to put together evidence allegedly linking him to the act.
Two cases of malicious damage to property reported by Rachidi on the day have been opened and linked to him by police.
How the incidents unfolded
Police spokesperson Colonel Malesela Ledwaba said that at about 4:30 AM, an unknown suspect set alight the signboard of a rehabilitation centre in Ladanna, next to Dendron Road, in the Westenburg Policing Area, prompting the first case to be opened at that station.
The suspect then allegedly proceeded to Seshego Zone 3 at the family home of Rachidi, where her Toyota Hilux Extended Cab was set alight.
“The fire extensively damaged the vehicle and spread to a portion of the house, where seven occupants were asleep at the time,” police said. “Neighbours acted swiftly and managed to extinguish the flames before further damage or injuries could occur.”
Rachidi corroborated a similar statement recently during an interview with Review Online.
Damage estimated at R800k
The estimated value of the damage is approximately R800 000, according to Ledwaba.
Investigation transferred to provincial unit
Following the registration of the cases, the investigations were transferred from the stations to the provincial unit, where senior police said they positively linked the businessman to both incidents and obtained a warrant for his arrest.
Police also seized a Toyota Fortuner that is believed to have been used in the commission of the offences.
Police confirmed that investigations are ongoing.
