Bail for arms cache suspect
Wynand van Zyl Roux during his arrest. Picture: Phill Magakoe Wynand van Zyl Roux during his arrest. Picture: Phill Magakoe
The former police brigadier who was arrested after an arms cache was discovered in his Moreleta Park home has been granted R10 000 bail in the Hatfield District Court.
Wynand van Zyl Roux, 65, was arrested on Friday after police reacted on information that weapons were stored at the house.
They apparently seized 36 firearms, including hunting rifles fitted with telescopic sights, shotguns and handguns, ammunition and dockets.
However, State advocate Matric Luphondo told the court yesterday that the charges investigated against Roux were the unlawful possession of two single shot rifles, the unlawful possession of 669 AK-47 rounds of ammunition, 424 rounds for R1 rifles, 52 rounds for 308 rifles and 28 rounds for a 6.35 pistol.
They were also investigating charges of contravention of the Police Act which include the unlawful possession of a police uniform and a case docket.
“Pending further investigation, there might also be a charge of either theft or the unlawful possession of two official files,” he said.
Luphondo said Roux’s address has been confirmed, adding that he (Roux) has an outstanding case of pointing a firearm.
Defence lawyer Francois Joubert read the accused’s affidavit that said he was a pensioner who had served 37 years in the police service.
At the time of his retirement, Roux was a Brigadier at the Organised Crime Unit in Durban. His son was also a police officer.
Explaining that he was a registered hunter, the court heard that Roux’s health was not good.
He has had an open heart operation and needed daily medication for this condition.
He also had hepatitis and as a result, his gall bladder was removed and his liver enlarged.
He also lost 90 percent of his hearing due to shingles.
Referring to the pending case against him, Roux said that “at no stage did I point a firearm”. He said he was informed that this case would be withdrawn when it is in court again in March, a decision based on the merits of the case and because the complainant does not want to proceed with the matter.
Regarding the case of the firearms and ammunition, Roux said: “I intend to plead not guilty.”
He said he was not a violent person and had no intention of fleeing.
If bail was denied, it would put his life at risk, as his health would deteriorate.
In addition, the court heard, the State did not oppose bail.
Magistrate JC Kruger postponed the case to March 16 for further investigation. - Pretoria News