After nearly a decade on the run, a former Knysna bank employee who reportedly ran off with Kruger Rands valued at R7.8 million has been apprehended, reports News24.
The 54-year-old suspect named Kenneth Gainsford allegedly stole the coins back in 2011 after he was tasked with keeping them safe by the owner.
According to police spokesperson Captain Malcolm Pojie, Gainsford will remain in custody until 27 January before his bail application can be heard.
Following a tip-off from community members, the alleged thief was arrested by Knysna detectives and the Tsitsikamma K9 unit in Wilderness near George around 10:00am on Thursday.
“Members followed up on information following the issuing of a warrant for his arrest by the Knysna Magistrate’s Court in connection with the theft that was allegedly perpetrated between May 2011 and 9 March 2012 when the owner presented the commodity to the suspect for safekeeping,” said Pojie.
It is alleged that the owner of the Kruger Rands had asked for their return, but Gainford refused to give them back. He later stated that the coins had disappeared, after which the complainant laid a criminal charge of theft against him, as per EWN.
His first court appearance took place in the Knysna Magistrate’s Court on Friday, 20 January.
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Picture: @krugerrandexchange
