A senior official of the Patriotic Alliance (PA) in Kimberley appeared in court again on Wednesday 28 January, on a charge of armed robbery, after which the case was postponed for a formal bail application.
Shadrack Mocholo (44), PA deputy chairperson of the Frances Baard Executive Council, is suspected of being involved in an armed robbery at a Shoprite store in the central business district.
Mocholo, dressed in a white T-shirt, was supported by a few party officials in the gallery.
His legal representative, Marcus Mafaro, informed Magistrate Benjamin September that the state had provided him with video evidence. Mafaro indicated that his defence would be based on this evidence, which he believes does not support the state’s case.
The appearance stems from an incident on Sunday 18 January this year, when four male assailants stormed the business at approximately 06.00.
Police spokesperson WO Molefi Shemane says the provincial Serious and Violent Crimes Murder and Robbery Unit is investigating the case.
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“Staff members were threatened and assaulted during the robbery. One male staff member sustained a gunshot wound to his left hand. A substantial amount of money was stolen from the premises. The injured staff member has since been released from hospital and is currently recovering.”
Political repercussions
On 25 January, the PA’s Frances Baard Regional Executive Committee announced the precautionary suspension of its deputy chairperson following his arrest.
Regional chairperson Lezelle Jackson emphasised the suspension is a measure to allow due process to take its course and does not constitute a determination of guilt.
“The suspension is intended solely to allow due process to take its course and to ensure that Mr Mocholo is afforded a fair opportunity to present his side of the story. The suspension will remain in effect pending the outcome of the ongoing investigation.
“We kindly appeal to all leaders to exercise restraint, refrain from speculation or spreading unverified information, and to uphold unity and discipline during this period.”
Detective WO Patrick Dibebe is leading the inquiry, and authorities have urged anyone with additional information to come forward.
The matter was postponed to 4 February.
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