The bail hearing for four South African Police Service (SAPS) officers accused of orchestrating an R20 jewellery heist at a luxury property in Llandudno, Cape Town, took an unexpected turn on Thursday.
Court hears suspicious details about the ‘complainant’
Defence attorneys raised significant questions about the credibility of the complainant, a Nigerian businessman and musician, whose identity and claims are central to the State’s case.
The defence argued that the complainant, identified only as Greg, lacks valid identification or a South African ID number, despite claiming to be a citizen.
Moreover, he does not possess a local bank account, and his passport information is unavailable.
Authorities also could not verify his movements in or out of the country, as no official record of his travel exists.
Adding to the uncertainty, Greg has allegedly fled South Africa, reportedly travelling frequently and leaving investigators without a clear line of contact.
These inconsistencies, according to the defence, cast serious doubt on the validity of his accusations and his ownership of the allegedly stolen items.
Alleged victim in Llandudno jewellery heist citizenship under scrutiny
The defence further questioned the State’s lack of evidence to substantiate the value and ownership of the allegedly stolen items.
While the complainant provided invoices for the luxury watches and jewellery, the defence maintains that no insurance documents or proof of purchase were presented to corroborate the claims.
The complainant’s stated South African citizenship is also under scrutiny.
His inability to provide an ID number or other documentation raises concerns about whether his claims are fabricated.
Defence lawyers suggested that their clients, who were conducting an operation to apprehend wanted Interpol suspects, may have been lured into a setup.
Conflicting accounts about what happened that day
The four officers – Jacobus Groenewald, Bradley Minnaar, Mthuthuzeli Mafanya, and Bathandwa Soldati – maintain that they acted within the scope of their duties on 13 September 2024.
According to their testimony, they had received a tip-off about wanted suspects hiding at the Llandudno property, situated on Sunset Avenue.
Upon arrival, several individuals fled into the nearby bushes.
The officers admit to searching the premises but deny taking any valuables.
Instead, they found empty watch boxes and claimed to have left the scene after failing to apprehend the suspects.
The State, however, alleges that the officers used cable ties to bind two occupants and stole jewellery, including Rolex and Cartier watches, electronics, and keys to two Lamborghinis and a BMW, packing the items into three duffle bags before fleeing.
With the suspects, having appeared in court 21 times since their arrest and held in custody at Pollsmoor prison for over four months, the defence emphasised the lack of solid evidence against them.
The court’s decision on bail is expected later today, as both sides await a ruling that could significantly impact the case.