Carolina Police arrested five suspects after numerous complaints about a group of young men terrorising the community in Silobela, Carolina, on 13 May.
The suspects, aged between 18 and 19 years are suspected to be affiliated with gangs. They were arrested for robbery and assault with the intention to cause grievous bodily harm (GBH).
According to Sgt Thabang Mokwana, spokesman for Carolina Police, the five suspects first appeared before the Carolina Magistrate’s Court on Friday, 14 May.
The arrest came after police received information that the suspects occupied a house in Silobela.
They raided the house at 4am. Mr Langa Sabelo Innocent (19) and Mr Masango Melusi Patrick (19) were arrested for assault with the intention to cause GBH.
Sgt Mokwana said that according to a complainant, the two suspects attacked him with a panga on 28 April.
One of his fingers was amputated due to the injuries.
“They will appear again in court on Friday, 2 June, for a formal bail hearing,” Sgt Mokwana said.
Mr Holinhlanhla Mpona Nkosi (18) was arrested in connection with an armed robbery that took place on 25 April.
He was allegedly part of a group that ambushed the complainant and his friend.
They threatened them with a knife and robbed them of their cell phones, shoes and a jacket to the value of R3 500 before fleeing the scene.
Mr Holinhlanhla’s case was postponed to 19 May for formal bail application, while the other suspects are still at large.
Sgt Mokwana added that the other two suspects, Mr Mabuza Confidence (19) and Mr Sibanyoni Lungelo Prominent (19) attacked an 18-year-old boy with pangas and golf clubs and robbed him of his cell phone.
They also stormed into Violet Jiyane Secondary with the intention to assault the boy again on Wednesday, 5 May.
With the assistance of the teachers, the boy managed to escape unscathed.
Police are following up on information regarding the whereabouts of the suspects, who are still at large.
Some of the weapons used during the attacks were confiscated during the police’s operation.
“We are concerned about our youth who engage in criminal activities when they are supposed to be in school.”
Carolina Police urged the community to be vigilant while walking at night.
“We thank all members of the community who continue to work with the police and provide information to ensure that criminals are brought to book, together we can make a difference,” Sgt Mokwana, concluded.
