POTCHEFSTROOM: Matthys Michiel Pienaar (35) appeared before the Molopo Magistrates’ Court on Friday, 1 July 2022, on charges of pointing of firearm, crimen injuria, intimidation and resisting arrest. He was granted R1000.00 bail and will reappear before the same court on Thursday, 4 August 2022.

His court appearance stems from an incident that occurred on Thursday, 30 June 2022, at an auction held at Buhrmansdrift, close to Ottoshoop. The Ngaka Modiri Molema Stock Theft Stabilisation Task Team held an operation to ensure compliance with the Animal Identification Act, 2002 (Act No. 6 of 2002). During the operation, Pienaar became aggressive when questioned by the police about his five cattle, which were allegedly not brand marked. Moreover, he pointed the police with his firearm, before fleeing in his vehicle. The police then followed him, overpowered, disarmed and arrested him.

The Provincial Commissioner of North West, Lieutenant General Sello Kwena, congratulated the members for their bravery and warned that no amount of intimidation will deter the police from carrying out their responsibilities.

Source: South African Police Service