| Nine robbers terrorising businesses sentenced | |
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| Date Published: | 2019/09/19 |
| Description Details: | |
Media Statement DURBAN – On 18 September 2019, the Durban High Court sentenced nine men to prison terms between 20 and 45 years for a business robbery committed in Kranskop. The accused were sentenced as follows: *Khehla Makhathini (44) sentenced to 20 years imprisonment *Xolani Makhathini (40) sentenced to 45 years *Mduduzi Mkhize (27) sentenced 20 years *Khulekani Mthembu (37) sentenced to 20 years *Nkululeko Mthembu (31) sentenced to 35 years *Khayelihle Ndlovu (25) sentenced to 20 years *Khayelisha Ngubane (30) sentenced to 35 years *Syabonga Ngubane (35) sentenced to 35 years *Sandile Shezi (36) sentenced to 35 years Their sentence came after the court heard how they terrorised business people in the Kranskop area during 2017. It is alleged on 07 July 2017 at 08:00, a group of heavily men approached the manager of a supermarket at Kranskop. At gunpoint they stole an undisclosed amount of cash, cigarettes and airtime vouchers. They also robbed the manager of his pistol before fleeing the scene in four getaway vehicles. The suspects also fired several shots as they passed the police station which was not far away from the scene. Kranskop police immediately mobilised all police units as well as neighboring stations which led to a large scale operation being launched to track down the suspects. Ground forces were also assisted by a police chopper. A massive air and ground operation resulted in positive results when the robbers were found hiding in several houses at Kwadolo in Msinga. Nine men including four who were allegedly shot and injured during the shootout with police, were arrested. Goods taken during the robbery including a firearm belonging to the manager, were recovered. An AK47 rifle, a shotgun and three pistols were recovered from the suspects. The injured men were treated and taken to hospital for further medical assistance under police guard. All four vehicles used by the men were recovered. Three of them were stolen vehicles. The Provincial Commissioner for KwaZulu-Natal, Lieutenant General Khombinkosi Jula, commended the investigating team for pursuing the case until these thugs were found guilty and condemned to remain in prison where they can no longer terrorise our communities. Ends
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