Agreement Mkhari 
Seven suspects, aged between 22 and 36, appeared before the Praktiseer Magistrate’s Court on Monday, 05 May 2025, facing charges of extortion and attempted murder. They were all remanded in custody and are expected to return to court on 13 May 2025 for their bail application.
The accused are:
1. Mahlomola Mohlala (27)
2. Vusimuzi Gale (32)
3. Thabiso Mohlala (36)
4. Lucky Nkosi (33)
5. Mashoto Makofane (28)
6. Phazy Thuli Lengwati (22)
7. Mogau Mamogale (36)
The arrests follow an incident at a local mining site where the suspects allegedly blocked the road with their vehicles and demanded money from a mine truck driver. Members of Operation Vala Umgodi responded to the scene.
Upon arrival, the police spotted the suspects, who fled in different directions. Shots were fired during the chase, and one suspect sustained gunshot wounds. Police managed to arrest seven individuals at the scene.
A case of extortion has been opened, and further investigations are underway. Early findings suggest the same group may have committed a similar crime in April 2025.
Vehicles used in the alleged crime were confiscated by police as part of the ongoing investigation.
