False armed robbery victim arrested
A BLUFF man, trying to avoid charges of gun negligence, was arrested for reporting a false case of armed robbery.
According to the man, he was held at gunpoint while walking along Solomon Mahlangu Drive (Edwin Swales VC) on the evening of Monday, 13 January after three men travelling in a white Opel Kadett, pulled over alongside him. He claimed two of them pointed guns at him and he was ordered to put his arms in the air, revealing his 38 revolver and other personal items. The men quickly fled the scene with his stolen belongings.
While questioning the alleged victim, Brighton Beach SAP detective tracking and tracing unit’s Srg Robert Jooste become suspicious about the events. Further interrogations led the man to confessing the incident had not occurred and that he had lied to cover up his negligent gun ownership.
The man had to leave his home in a rush and when he later returned, could not find his revolver. To avoid charges for not safeguarding his gun, he fabricated the false armed robbery. The 47-year-old was arrested on charges of perjury and defeating the course of justice and appeared in Durban Court on 21 January for his first appearance. Additional charges under the Firearm Control Act are expected.
A fellow tenant found the man’s gun under a mattress and it was handed over to the police.
Brighton Beach SAP commends Sgt Jooste for the interviewing techniques, which resulted in the man confessing. “There has been an increase in false cases reported at Brighton Beach SAP. People should think twice before committing perjury or defeating the course of justice, because investigative techniques linked with technology will catch you out. You will have a criminal record and be declared unfit to carry a registered firearm. Sentences being imposed for perjury or defeating the course of justice can include imprisonment, a fine or both,” said Brighton Beach SAP communications officer, Captain Louise Le Roux.
– erinh@dbn.caxton.co.za
