- JMPD officers Makgopa and Baloi from Region F1 Operations Unit arrested four men on 26 January 2025 at the burnt Usindiso building in Marshalltown.
- The Johannesburg Magistrate’s Court sentenced two men to two years for trespassing and three years for damage to property on 10 February 2026.
JMPD officers Makgopa and Baloi were on routine patrol at the burnt Usindiso building on the corner of Albert and Delvers Streets on 26 January 2025 when they heard suspicious noises.
The building is a crime hotspot known for theft and vandalism.
The officers from the Region F1 Operations Unit went inside to investigate and found four men destroying the interior walls with different tools.
The men were arrested and taken to Johannesburg Central SAPS.
After a year-long trial at the Johannesburg Magistrate’s Court, judgment was delivered on 10 February 2026.
All four men were found guilty of trespassing and malicious damage to property. One was also convicted of illegal immigration.
Two of the men were sentenced to two years for trespassing and three years for malicious damage to property.
The other two received the same sentences, which will run at the same time.
Two of the men will be deported after serving their sentences.
Angie Mokasi, JMPD Director of Operations, said the officers provided testimony during the trial.
“The conviction serves as a testament to the efficacy of the JMPD’s day-shift patrol strategies,” Mokasi said.
JMPD Chief of Police Patrick Jaca praised the officers for their dedication and professionalism.
He said their work ensured justice was served.
Pictured above: Policeman with a suspect.
Image source: CoJ
