Fake money 'gang of 11' busted

The accused appeared in court yesterday (Tuesday) to face one count of counterfeiting currency. According to the charge sheet, the accused, Opelo Joko, 31, Kopo Aaron, 25, Tapenta Chitupu, 25, Olerato Mosweu, 21, Benedict Zikhale, 36, Nchidzi Machola, 19, Mpaphi Smarts, 22, Revay Masike, 23, Mompoloki Gobutsemang, 27, Goitseone Galane, 24, and Prince Rabanyana, 23, acting together with common intent unlawfully reproduced a P200 banknote of serial number AR 1672699 in multiples of 200 being a legal tender note issued by the Bank of Botswana (BoB).

A total of 2,882 notes were confiscated on April 7 at Gerald Estate, a total amount of P576,400. Pleas in the matter were reserved and Prosecutor Ditshotlo Mpale called investigating officer, Detective Sergeant Andrew Moeti to give reasons why the accused should be remanded in custody pending investigation. Moeti told Magistrate Game Mooketsi that the charge the accused are facing was of national interest.