Attempted robbers mistakenly released

VEREENIGING. – One of five suspects in a robbery case was apparently arrested without proper cause, while the other four were mistakenly released without being charged.
A tip-off by a police informant lead to a foiled armed robbery in the Vereeniging CBD on August 15.
But all this effort and good work almost went to waste when all the arrested suspects were released. Police spokesperson Brigadier Hangwani Malaudzi of the Hawks told Vaalweekblad that two of the suspects had since been arrested again. The other two are still at large. Brigadier Mulaudzi said the acting head: Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (Hawks), Major General Mthandazo Ntlemeza, realised with shock that the suspects had been released before they appeared in court. It appears that the team, which had done fantastic work in apprehending the suspects, for some reason did not follow through by ensuring that the suspects were charged and presented before court within 48 hours as required by law. He said the management of the Hawks views this as a serious matter and has ordered an internal investigation. The suspects were originally arrested with four firearms and an R4 rifle in their possession. They were arrested on the corner of Beaconsfield Avenue and Edward Street on August 15. “We are working extremely hard to rectify this matter. We are confident justice will be served. The two suspects at large will be arrested and brought before the court,” says Ntlemeza.