PA regional leader to apply for bail after Shoprite armed robbery in Kimberley

PATRIOTIC Alliance (PA) Frances Baard regional deputy chairperson Shadrack Mocholo, 44, is expected to apply for bail next week in the Kimberley Magistrate’s Court following his arrest in connection with an armed robbery at a Shoprite store at the corner of Chapel and Currey streets in Kimberley’s CBD on January 18.

During the incident, a 54-year-old retail worker was shot, with a bullet believed to have penetrated a bone in his hand.

The injured employee said he had been threatened at knifepoint before an armed gunman entered the store and fired a shot.

“I fell to the ground after I was shot in my left hand. They then proceeded to ransack the store. I lost a lot of blood and waited for four days in hospital in pain before surgery was performed and metal plates were inserted into my hand. Thankfully, I still have the use of my hand,” he said.

He indicated that he was expected to return to work on February 2, although he was still experiencing severe pain.

“I am not afraid to go back to work despite my near-death experience, as I am the only breadwinner and am financially responsible for my family and grandchildren,” he added.

Northern Cape police spokesperson Warrant Officer Molefi Shemane confirmed that the Provincial Serious and Violent Crimes Murder and Robbery Unit was investigating the armed robbery.

He said that four men reportedly entered the business premises at around 6am on January 18, where they threatened and assaulted staff members.

“One staff member was shot in the left hand by one of the assailants, while the store was robbed of a substantial amount of money,” Shemane said.

He added that a 44-year-old suspect had been arrested in connection with the robbery.

“The injured staff member has since been discharged from hospital and is recovering. The investigation continues,” Shemane said.

Bail application to be heard next week 

Mocholo appeared in the Kimberley Magistrate’s Court on January 28, where it was indicated that he would be facing a Schedule 6 offence of robbery with aggravating circumstances.

His legal representative, Advocate Marcus Mafaro, said the State had no evidence implicating his client other than video footage.

Magistrate Benjamin September postponed the formal bail application to February 4.

Supporters of Mocholo who attended the court proceedings maintained that he was innocent.

“The truth will come out in court,” they said.

According to an advisory issued by Frances Baard regional chairperson Lezelle Jackson, Mocholo was placed on precautionary suspension following his arrest.

“The measure should not be interpreted as a determination of guilt, nor as a judgment having been passed. It is intended solely to allow due process to take its course and to ensure that Mr Mocholo is afforded an opportunity to present his side of the story. The suspension will remain in effect pending the outcome of the ongoing investigation,” the advisory stated.