Northern Cape man sentenced for dealing in unpolished diamonds! Two high-profile cases recently concluded in the Northern Cape courts, underscoring the province’s commitment to cracking down on organized crime and violent offenses.
Diamond Dealer Sentenced for Illegal Trade
Poalu Sercio Martins Bernardo, a 53-year-old diamond dealer, was sentenced in the Springbok Regional Court for illegal dealings in unpolished diamonds. The charges stemmed from an investigation by the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (Hawks).
Warrant Officer Nomthandazo Mnisi, spokesperson for the Hawks, stated that Bernardo was convicted on three counts of illegal diamond trading. He was arrested in March 2022 during a targeted operation by the Hawks’ Serious Organised Crime Investigation team.
“Three transactions were conducted with the accused, during which he purchased five unpolished state diamonds weighing 10 carats,” Mnisi revealed.
Bernardo was sentenced to a fine of R150,000 or six years imprisonment for each count, suspended for five years on the condition that he does not commit a similar offense.
Additionally, the court ordered a restitution of R125,834 to the State under Section 300 of the Criminal Procedure Act. Cash totaling R144,000, paid during the illegal transactions, was also forfeited to the State.
This case highlights the success of the Hawks in disrupting the illicit diamond trade, which undermines the region’s legal mining economy.
Egyptian Businessman’s Murderers Receive Lengthy Sentences
In a separate case, the Springbok High Court sentenced four men—two from Botswana and two South Africans—for the murder of Egyptian businessman Khalil Lofty Ghazy. Ghazy was killed outside the Kekkel en Kraai shop in Springbok during a robbery.
The convicted individuals include Botswana nationals Ditiro Brooks (28) and Rapaleng Brooks (27), alongside their South African accomplices, Kgagamatso Mokoding (42) and Ohentse Bless (30).
The court handed down the following sentences:
- Murder: 25 years imprisonment for each accused.
- Robbery: 18 years imprisonment.
- Illegal possession of firearms and ammunition: Five years imprisonment.
The sentences will run concurrently, ensuring that justice is served for the brutal crime.
Details of the Murder
Ghazy’s murder occurred during a brazen robbery outside a popular Springbok store. The group ambushed the businessman, robbed him, and shot him, leaving the local community shocked and outraged.
The court described the crime as premeditated and executed with blatant disregard for human life. The lengthy sentences reflect the severity of the offenses and the court’s intention to deter similar crimes.
A Step Toward Justice
Both cases represent significant victories for law enforcement in the Northern Cape. The successful prosecution of Bernardo demonstrates the effectiveness of long-term, intelligence-driven investigations, particularly in addressing illegal diamond trading—a major concern in a region known for its mining industry.
Similarly, the sentencing of Ghazy’s murderers underscores the province’s zero-tolerance stance on violent crime. The swift and decisive action sends a clear message to criminals: justice will be served.
Community and Law Enforcement Collaboration
The resolution of these cases was possible due to collaboration between law enforcement, the judiciary, and the communities they serve.
Warrant Officer Mnisi emphasized the importance of public support in curbing organized crime:
“Community members who report illegal activities play a crucial role in helping us dismantle these criminal networks.”
Meanwhile, Provincial Commissioner Lieutenant General Koliswa Otola lauded the efforts of the police and the prosecution teams in both cases.
“These sentences serve as a reminder that crime does not pay. Our commitment to ensuring safety and justice remains unwavering,” said Otola.
Conclusion
The Northern Cape courts have sent a strong message through these verdicts. From tackling white-collar crimes like illegal diamond trading to addressing violent offenses like murder, law enforcement agencies and the judiciary are working tirelessly to uphold justice and protect communities.
As the region grapples with crime, these cases highlight the importance of vigilance, accountability, and community cooperation in creating a safer environment for all.
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