The Hawks have arrested the self-professed leader of the National Christian Resistance Movement also known as the ‘Crusaders’ for an alleged terror plot.
The Hawks said that the arrest of 60-year-old Harry Johannes Knoesen followed an extensive two-year intelligence-led investigation into the alleged terrorist plot apparently coordinated by the group to target national key points, shopping malls and informal settlements.
In a statement on Friday the Hawks said that Knoesen was apprehended at his residence in Middelburg, Mpumalanga on Thursday and “charged for terrorism-related activities”.
“The subsequent search at his other residence in the Eastern Cape, uncovered a possible explosives factory, electronic devices, documents an unlicensed firearm and ammunition that were seized for further analysis,” the statement said.
“Knoesen is a retired pastor and former SANDF member. The case was postponed to Monday, the 2nd December 2019, for legal aid representation.”
Meanwhile, the team is also searching for Riana Heymans (pictured below) who is wanted in connection with the activities of the National Christian Resistance Movement.
Anyone who might know her whereabouts should contact the Investigating officer Warrant Officer Jaco Koekemoer on 0827789157 or Lieutenant Colonel Koos de Klerk 0714812982.”
(Pisc: Supplied)
