By Obakeng Maje
Garankuwa- Swift reaction, co-operation and diligence led to conviction and sentencing of Lucky Edwin Baloyi,26, to life imprisonment for murder and other charges while Jabu Javas Basaya,31, got fifty years imprisonment.   

The sentences were imposed by the North West Division of High seating in Ga-rankuwa on Wednesday. 

Colonel Sabata Mokgwabone said the accused were arrested after shooting Tshwane Metro Police Official two years ago along Molefe Makinta Highway.

By then, three Metro officials were enforcing National Road Traffic Act through Vehicle Check Point when attacked by the accused who shot one of the officials and robbed him his service pistol. The officials returned fire and that led to injury of one of the accused who was admitted to the hospital, while a metro official was rushed to Legae Private Clinic where he later died. 

“A joint intensive search by Ga-rankuwa, Mabopane, Hebron, and Tshwane Metro police officials led to arrest of one of the suspects within a short space of time after the incident” Mokgwabone said.

Jabu Javas Basaya was sentenced to life imprisonment for murder, twenty years for armed robbery, 3 years for each of five counts of attempted murder and 6 years for unlawful possession of firearm and ammunitions.  

The court also sentenced Lucky Edwin Baloyi to 25 years imprisonment for murder, 10 years for armed robbery, 6 years for each of 2 counts of attempted murder, and 3 years for possession of unlicensed firearm and ammunitions. Sentences will run concurrently.

The North West Provincial Commissioner expressed thanks to the members for their commitment and team effort that led to arrest and eventual sentencing of the culprits.

“This is an indication that working together will bring results such as this one; a long jail term. We will continue to serve and protect the community with pride and ensure that perpetrators pay for their deeds”, Lt Gen Zukiswa Mbombo said.    
-TDN
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