Suspects in Durban bomb threats linked to several other cases
The Hawks say the group of 19 suspects arrested last week in connection with a series of bomb threats in and around Durban earlier this year have been linked to 11 different cases.
At least one case includes the fatal knife attack at the Imam Hussain Mosque near Verulam, north of Durban in May that claimed the life of Abbas Essop.
The suspects are also thought to be linked to a number of incidents in which devices were found planted at various locations around the city.
Spokesperson, Hangwani Mulaudzi says extortion is believed to be part of the motive behind the crimes.
"Based on what we have investigated, extortion forms part and parcel of the charges we have filed against the suspects. We are talking about 14 charges and eleven cases," Mulaudzi said.
They're also being charged with contravening the Protection of Constitutional Democracy Against Terrorist and Related Activities Act.
"This falls under the banner of POCDATARA - pertaining to the planting of these devices. That's why this charge has also been added," he said.
The group made its second appearance before the Verulam Magistrate's Court yesterday. They're due back in court next week.
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