By BAKANG MOKOTO
8 October 2024- Four accused who were arrested for aggravated robbery and kidnapping, were sentenced to a combined 28 years imprisonment by the Kuruman Regional Court. In June 2018, the complainant was approached by Lopang Molaolwa (34), Mothusi Maele (39), Herbert Obiditse (28) and Kagisho Masala (22), as they requested a hike/lift.
The Hawks spokesperson in Northern Cape, Warrant Officer Nomthandazo Mnisi said he gave them a lift and while driving, he was instructed to stop the vehicle and he refused. Mnisi said the driver realised that the person behind him had pointed at him with a firearm and he stopped.
“The group assaulted and forced him into the back of his vehicle. They drove with him to a veld, where they forcefully took his bank card and tied him to a tree with his shoe laces and belt.
“He managed to free himself and went to look for assistance. The victim and the police went to the Grand Hotel and found three accused in his vehicle and the fourth suspect was pointed out by a witness, while he was already inside the Grand Hotel,” she said.
Mnisi further said the police managed to recover the victim’s vehicle, cell phone, spare wheel, car radio, speakers and groceries. She added that a case docket was then transferred to Hawks Serious Organised Crime Investigation team for further investigation which resulted in a successful conviction and sentencing.
“Molaolwa, Maele and Obiditse were sentenced to 10 years imprisonment each and Masala was sentenced to 8 years imprisonment on both counts. All accused were declared unfit to possess a firearm,” said Mnisi.
The Guardian 