Linda Hlongwa is wanted in connection with several extortion cases and illegal firearms possession. (Supplied/SAPS)
The Pinetown Magistrate’s Court has issued a warrant for the arrest of Linda Hlongwa, a suspect linked to several extortion cases and illegal firearms possession.
According to the KwaZulu-Natal police, Hlongwa, who is also known by the aliases “Mjinja” and “Putin”, is wanted following a series of allegations that he has been terrorising business owners in the Mariannhill area.
KwaZulu-Natal police spokesperson Colonel Robert Netshiunda Hlongwa was initially arrested on 20 July 2020 after being found with a firearm and ammunition on Ukuthula Street in Mariannhill.
“He was released from custody pending ballistic results. Since then, he has ignored summons to appear in court to face charges,” said Netshiunda.
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He added that the court had issued a warrant for Hlongwa’s arrest on 9 September, as police continue to investigate his involvement in extortion schemes targeting local businesses.
RT #sapsKZN #SAPS seeks public assistance in locating Linda Hlengwa, who also goes by the name ‘Mjinja’ or ‘Putin’ (in photo), who is #wanted in connection with cases of illegal possession of a firearm, illegal possession of ammo also for a string of #extortion cases in which he… pic.twitter.com/qc96lWrQTk
— SA Police Service ???? (@SAPoliceService) September 18, 2024
KwaZulu-Natal police are calling on community members to assist in locating Hlongwa.
“Anyone with information regarding his whereabouts is urged to contact investigating officer Sergeant Gwala on 079 889 9733 or to report anonymously via the Crime Stop number [08600 10111]” said Netshiunda.
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