Gaopatwe, also called ‘the Bomber’ for his ‘expertise’ in the bombing of CIT vehicles and ATMs, was alleged to be the mastermind behind a syndicate of armed robbers in Botswana, South Africa and Zimbabwe, operating from a South African prison. In a media release, the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI), commonly known as the Hawks, stated that on May 17, 2018, three G4S vehicles left their depot in Boksburg on their way to Absa Bank in Spartan to deposit substantial amounts of money. Then, as the vehicles travelled along Atlas Road in Boksburg, the armoured vehicles were ambushed by a group of men, including Gaopatwe and his five accused robbers, using fully automatic firearms. The six robbers allegedly used explosives to forcefully open the armoured vehicles, stealing money bags, and firearms from the security personnel. "In a dramatic chase, the police, security firms, and Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Police (EMPD) pursued the robbers, leading to the arrest of multiple suspects, and the recovery of stolen money, and various firearms and ammunition. "The operation involved multiple law enforcement components, including the Johannesburg Hawks' Serious Organised Crime Investigation, Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD), and police dog units, amongst others," reads the media release.
Gaopatwe's co-accused were identified as Paul Sibanda, 56, Thabo Ponatshego Molefe, 43, Sibusiso Zakhe Khumalo, 43, Collen Zwelakhe Hadebe, 49, and Thapelo Arnold Nchabeleng, 35, and were faced with numerous charges, including armed robbery, attempted murder, possession of unlicensed firearms and ammunition, and causing explosions. The media statement further stated their sentences, which span from 36 to 40 years imprisonment, reflect the gravity of their crimes. Furthermore, it revealed that the prosecution had meticulously presented a robust case, detailing the brazen nature of the robberies and the sophisticated methods employed by the criminals. Through relentless effort and unwavering commitment, it was disclosed that the investigators were able to piece together crucial evidence that left no room for doubt about the guilt of the accused. "The successful convictions are a testament to the dedication and expertise of the investigative and prosecution teams. Their tireless work, often under challenging and dangerous conditions, has resulted in bringing dangerous criminals to justice and safeguarding the public," reads the media release.
