The Gauteng Hawks' Serious Organised Crime Investigation team, in collaboration with their Head Office counterparts, achieved a significant breakthrough in their fight against illegal precious metal trading by arresting two suspects involved in the unlawful possession of gold.
On Tuesday, 26th November 2024, at approximately 13:15, the dedicated team executed a meticulously planned operation, leading to the successful arrests of the suspects. The individuals were apprehended while in possession of six bars of unwrought gold, as they were attempting to find a buyer.
The suspects, Joacham Chivayo, a 33-year-old Zimbabwean national, and Ayanda Brian Gungwa, a 20-year-old South African citizen, were promptly arrested at Helderwyk Estate. The seized gold, valued at approximately R15 million, underscores the gravity of the crime.
Both suspects have been charged with illegal possession of gold, contravening the Precious Metals Act, Act 37 of 2005. The case has been registered at Brakpan Police Station.
The duo made their first court appearance on Wednesday, 27 November 2024. They remain in custody. Further investigations are underway to trace the origin of the gold and to identify any additional suspects involved in this illegal trade.
The acting Provincial Head of the Hawks in Gauteng Brigadier Paulina Sekgobela, in commending the team, stated, "The Gauteng Hawks remain steadfast in our commitment to uphold the law and protect our nation's valuable resources. The diligence and coordination demonstrated by all team members in this operation are highly commendable."