Anna Catherina Badenhorst (67), was found guilty and sentenced by the Secunda Magistrate Court on 04 October 2023 after she was arrested by the Hawks Secunda based Serious Organised Crime Investigation unit. The accused was charged as follows: Count 1.Contravening sec. 120(10) (a) Act 60 of 2000 – providing a firearm to any person not entitled to possess it. Count 2: Contravening sec. 120(10) (a) Act 60 0f 2000 – providing ammunition to any person not entitled to it.
The sentences followed after the accused was implicated by her co-accused who were arrested for possession of unlicensed firearm and ammunition and dealing in drugs (Nyaope).
It is alleged that during the arrest of the pair, they were found in possession of unlicensed firearm and ammunition. Preliminary investigation revealed that the firearm did not belong to them.
The investigation team verified the ownership, which led them to the residence of the rightful owner of the firearm.
A warrant of arrest was authorised and executed during an
intelligence driven operation on 15 March 2023. The accused was arrested and later released on bail. She appeared in court on several occasions until she was found guilty and sentenced on 4 October 2023 as follows:
Count 1: R12000 fine or 12 months imprisonment suspended for 5 years’.
Count 2: R12000 fine or 12 months imprisonment suspended for 5 years’. The firearm and ammunition forfeited to the state.
The Provincial Head of the Hawks Major General Gerber indicated that concerted efforts are made by the HAWKS to eradicate the prevalence of illicit firearms which are in circulation. He is urging the public to report incidents and provide information on illegal firearms. He further assured the public that information received will be treated with confidentiality. He concluded.
Source: South African Police Service