Relebohile Makhetha
Lebohang Ntsome (40), Ramobali Mosiuoa (31), and Motšoane Motšoane (59) appeared before Magistrate Teboho Tapole on Wednesday, May 8th, facing charges under the provisions of section 3(1) and (2) (b) of the internal security (Arms and Ammunition) act no.17 of 1966 as amended by act no.4 of 1999.
Ntsome was apprehended in possession of a .22 Arminius pistol loaded with seven rounds of ammunition, lacking a firearm certificate. Similarly, Mosiuoa was found with a .38 special firearm and one round, also without proper documentation. Motšoane was discovered with a .38 special firearm, decorated with red and white tape, and six rounds of ammunition, all lacking the necessary firearm certificate.
During the proceedings, Ntsome and Motšoane asserted that they possessed the firearms to protect their families and livestock from thieves. Mosiuoa claimed to have received the firearm from an individual in Matatiele, South Africa, while assisting in the sale of goats.
Each defendant pleaded guilty before Magistrate Tapole and was granted bail, with assurances of compliance with the law in the future. Ntsome received bail set at M3000, Mosiuoa at M2000, and Motšoane at M3000, with half of the amounts suspended for five years.
In a stern admonishment, Magistrate Tapole directed his words particularly to Motšoane, emphasizing the importance of his role as an elder in discouraging the unlawful possession of firearms among youth. He urged Motšoane to serve as a positive influence, educating others on the necessity of seeking guidance from authorities and adhering to legal procedures for safeguarding families and livestock.
As the defendants await further legal proceedings, Magistrate Tapole’s words serve as a reminder of the gravity of their actions and the responsibility they bear in upholding the law and promoting community safety.
