The Crusaders were preparing and planning to carry out terrorist attacks on government institutions, including police stations and military outfits in November 2019.
Two members of the National Christian Resistance Movement, who were plotting the murder of black people as well overthrowing the government, have been sentenced to eight years imprisonment for planning terrorist activities.
Their plans also involved the killing of black people, which included the targeting of informal settlements.The attacks were planned for 28 November 2019, Hawks spokesperson Colonel Katlego Mogale said in a statement.Mogale said the court on Tuesday found both men guilty on six counts, including planning terrorist attacks, financing of terrorism, and unlawful possession of firearms and ammunition.
Meanwhile, the self-professed leader of the Crusaders and alleged main orchestrator, Harry Knoesen, was expected to appear in the Mpumalanga High Court in February 2021, for a trial date to be arranged after he pleaded not guilty. Knoesen allegedly recruited members and discussed his plans with members disillusioned with the current government.