Hawks nab Mpumalanga man on terror charges
The Hawks have arrested the 60-year-old self-professed leader of the National Christian Resistance Movement, also known as the Crusaders, on terror-related charges.
Harry Knoesen was nabbed at his home in Middelburg, Mpumalanga on Thursday.
The crime-fighting unit’s spokesperson Hangwani Mulaudzi says the arrest follows a two-year investigation into an alleged terrorist plot.
The group apparently targeted national key points, shopping malls and informal settlements.
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Knoesen is facing charges related to the Protection of Constitutional Democracy Against Terrorism and Related Activities, as well as for the unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition.
"Yesterday, based on the information that we have on hand, we arrested the leader of that group. They were plotting to go ahead with their so-called terrorist activities within the year.
"There was an operation in the Eastern Cape in a house where we managed to get some bomb-making equipment and lots of liquid which are still being assessed by our forensic people.”
Knoesen, who is a retired pastor and former SANDF member, appeared in court on Friday.
The matter was postponed to Monday for legal aid representation.