Joachim Chivayo, the brother of controversial Zimbabwean businessman Wicknell Chivayo, was arrested in South Africa after he was allegedly found with R15 million worth of gold.
Joachim, who was arrested alongside, Ayanda Brian Gungwa, a 20-year-old South African citizen, was in possession of gold that was alleged to have been smuggled from Zimbabwe.
Joachim was detained at Helderwyk Estate in Johannesburg on Tuesday while looking for a buyer for the gold.
In a statement, the Hawks said the arrest was a significant step in its fight against the illegal buying and selling of the precious metal.
“The Gauteng Hawks’ serious organised crime investigation team, in collaboration with their head office counterparts, achieved a significant breakthrough in their fight against illegal precious metal trading by arresting the two suspects involved in the unlawful possession of gold,” said Gauteng spokesperson for the Hawks, Captain Lloyd Ramovha.
“On Tuesday, at approximately 1:15pm, the dedicated team executed a meticulously planned operation, leading to the successful arrests of the suspects.”
The two men have have been charged with illegal possession of gold, and contravening the Precious Metals Act. The case was registered at Brakpan Police Station.
Ramovha revealed that the suspects were found in possession of six bars of unwrought gold.
“The suspects, Joachim Chivayo, a 33-year-old Zimbabwean national, and Ayanda Brian Gungwa, a 20-year-old South African citizen, were promptly arrested at Helderwyk Estate.
“The seized gold, valued at approximately R15 million, underscores the gravity of the crime,” said Ramovha.
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