ASSET FORFEITURE UNIT SECURES MULTIPLE FORFEITURE ORDERS IN NORTHERN CAPE CRACKDOWN ON ORGANISED CRIME

Kimberley, Northern Cape – The Asset Forfeiture Unit (AFU) of the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) has obtained multiple forfeiture orders in the Northern Cape Division of the High Court in Kimberley, marking a significant step in disrupting organised crime and stripping offenders of the proceeds and instrumentalities of crime.

On 17 April 2026, the AFU in Kimberley successfully secured forfeiture orders relating to various assets linked to serious criminal activities, including drug trafficking, illegal mining, infrastructure theft, and organised gang operations. In one of the key matters, the AFU forfeited to the State two properties situated in Kuruman, with an estimated combined value of R3 million. The properties were acquired using proceeds derived from drug dealing and the operation of illegal shebeens and taverns.

The properties are linked to Barney George Peters, an alleged gang leader of a group known as the “Hollanders,” who is accused of orchestrating criminal activities, including drug trafficking and violent gang-related offences in Kimberley and Kuruman.

Peters, together with 17 alleged gang members and several of his spouses, is currently appearing before the High Court in Kimberley on a range of serious charges. These include aiding and abetting criminal gang activity, conspiracy to commit murder, multiple counts of attempted murder, unlawful possession of firearms and ammunition, fraud, public violence, rape, kidnapping, assault, and defeating the ends of justice, among others. It is further alleged that one of his spouses was murdered under circumstances linked to suspicions of disloyalty and a subsequent insurance payout of approximately R1.3 million.

In a separate matter, the AFU obtained a forfeiture order for a white Hino 300 truck, a Bon Voyage cattle trailer, and 289 gas cylinders valued at approximately R550,000. These assets were used as instruments in the illegal trade and distribution of gas. The AFU also secured a forfeiture order for assets seized in Port Nolloth, where foreign nationals were arrested for illegal mining activities. The forfeited items include R49,000 in cash and unpolished diamonds weighing a combined total of over 9 carats.

Further forfeiture orders include a Nissan NP200 bakkie seized in Postmasburg, which was used to escort a stolen bus valued at approximately R2 million. The vehicle was found carrying diesel, tools used for breaking into vehicles, and documentation linked to the stolen bus. In addition, a Mazda 323 motor vehicle seized in the De Aar policing area was forfeited after being used to transport stolen copper cables valued at R100,000. Another forfeiture order was granted for a silver Opel Corsa seized in Postmasburg, which was used in the transportation of stolen livestock, including goats.

These forfeiture orders demonstrate the NPA’s continued commitment, through the AFU, to ensuring that crime does not pay. By targeting the financial gains and tools used in criminal activities, the AFU plays a critical role in dismantling organised crime networks and safeguarding communities.

The NPA will continue to use asset recovery as a strategic prosecutorial tool, including the application of Chapter 6 of the Prevention of Organised Crime Act, to forfeit assets without the need to await the finalisation of criminal proceedings.

Issued by:

Mojalefa Senokoatsane

NPA Regional Spokesperson

Northern Cape Division