NPA seize assets in Bloemfontein

The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) has seized R108 900 and three properties belonging to three men who allegedly robbed a municipality and several employees of R402 000 and personal items, the NPA said on Thursday.

The Bloemfontein High Court granted the seizure order on Thursday, said spokesman Phaladi Shuping.

Dibenyane Benny Nkopane, 33, Sthembele Professor Mgulwa, 30, and Andrew Lehlohonolo Mofokeng, 30, allegedly robbed Metsimaholo Municipality and several employees in July and September 2011.

Nkopane and Mgulwa, from Sasolburg, were arrested on September 8 last year and Mofokeng, a municipal worker from Parys, was arrested on September 9. Mofokeng allegedly received R30 000 for his role in the robberies.

“Upon their arrest the police found the accused in possession of R108 900 in cash, (a) BMW 3 series, (an) LCD TV, expensive shoes and electronic equipment which were apparently bought... days after the robberies,” said Shuping.

Cellphones, laptop bags, and watches taken from the employees during the robberies were also found and returned to their respective owners.

The R108 900 seized was to be re-paid to the robbery victims. The other items would be sold at auctions, with proceeds deposited into the Criminal Assets Recovery Account, to be used for investigations.

The three men appeared in the Bloemfontein Magistrate's Court on May 24 and were denied bail.

The trial was expected to begin on June 20. – Sapa