Durban police are investigating the discovery of more than 100 bank cards in the possession of Constable Minenhle Makhaye, believed to be linked to multiple hijackings. The 27-year-old officer was arrested after being found with a bank card belonging to the mother of 11-year-old Zarah Ramsamy, who was killed during a hijacking last month.
Makhaye appeared in the Durban Magistrate’s Court for the second time on Monday. His case was postponed for a formal bail application.
State Prosecutor Calvin Govender informed the court that detectives are collaborating with bank officials to trace the origins of the newly discovered bank cards at Makhaye's residence. It is suspected that some of the cards may have been stolen during the hijacking of a courier vehicle. Govender also revealed that four banks have provided special scanners to aid detectives in the investigation.
Makhaye faces multiple charges, including theft, fraud, and defeating the ends of justice. He was allegedly caught using Mrs. Ramsamy’s bank card to purchase alcohol worth over R1,000 following the fatal hijacking.
According to police, Makhaye was the officer responsible for transporting the stolen vehicle to a South African Police Service (SAPS) facility after it was recovered in Cato Manor. The investigation into his possible involvement in other hijackings continues.