Suspect (57) arrested by hawks for possession of explosives at children’s shelter

HARTBEESPOORT – A 57-year-old suspect was arrested in Schoemansville, following a multi-disciplinary operation. It is reported that the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation received information about an unregistered Non-Profit Organisation operating in Schoemansville.

Allegedly, the shelter was registered in 2012 and registered by the DSD following the entity not complying with regulations and requirements as set out by the department. The DSD also indicated that the same shelter was not registered as a Child and Youth Care Centre (CYCC) therefore was in contravention of the Children’s Act and regulations of a registered CYCC.

This prompted law enforcement to apply for a search and seizure warrant in terms of Criminal Procedure Act (CPA) and Cyber Crimes Act which was granted, resulting in the premises being visited.

Upon arrival of the law enforcement team, eleven (11) children aged between 13 and 17 were found, rescued and taken to district surgeon for medical assessment then handed over to DSD.

Electronic equipment, computers, three unlicensed rifles, ammunition and explosives were seized for further investigation. The suspect appeared in the Brits Magistrates court on charges of illegal possession of unlicensed firearms and ammunition as well as unlawful possession of explosives.

Units Involved:

• Hawks’ Serious Organised Crime Investigation,
• Tactical Operations Management Section (TOMS)
• Digital Forensic Laboratory (DFL)
• Homeland Security
• SAPS’ National Serial Electronic Crimes Investigation (SECI) of Family Violence
• Child Protection and Sexual Offences (FCS)
• Local Criminal Records Centre (LCRC)
• FCS North West, K9 Hartbeespoort
• Explosives unit
• National Department of Social Development (DSD)
• Investigative Psychology Section (IPS)