Modack, two others in court today

THREE suspects arrested on charges of conspiracy to commit murder, attempted murder, extortion and kidnapping are expected to appear in the Cape Town Magistrate’s Court today.

The trio, aged 29 to 49, who include alleged underworld boss Nafiz Modack, spent the weekend behind bars after they were arrested on Thursday, following investigations by the Hawks' national task team, a special task force, Anti-Gang Unit, Vehicle Safeguarding Unit, and Crime Scene Management after the execution of six warrants of arrest in the Western Cape.

Hawks spokesperson Katlego Mogale said the arrests followed cases of the attempted murder of an advocate, as well as gang-related extortion, kidnapping and intimidation in the Milnerton area. Mogale said the suspects were noticed by the team in Century View. When the team allegedly attempted to stop them, they sped away in one of the vehicles.

“A high-speed chase ensued and the suspects were cornered at Sable Road and arrested.” Two vehicles were searched and three unlicensed firearms recovered. Mogale said two suspects handed themselves over on Friday and would face the same charges.

Whistle-blower and community activist Colin Arendse said the arrest of Modack was confusing. However, he was looking forward to hearing what happened in court.

“It’s been a while since we have seen any breakthroughs and it would really help if we get the shooter. I hope they do these things diligently so that no loopholes (can) be used to circumvent the result we are looking for – a proper investigation and the arrest of all those who are implicated.”