By OBAKENG MAJE
Three men, Sthembiso Mthembu (39), Tshepo Sebeko (44) and Bongani Mkhwanazi (59) were sentenced to a combined 51 years imprisonment by the Klerksdorp Regional Court for theft of motor vehicles, robberies with aggravating circumstances, attempted murders, unlawful possession of firearms and ammunition.
In November 2015, the victim was on his way to Wolmaranstad conveying diamond gravel, when an Audi vehicle veered towards the victim’s vehicle, causing an accident in which the Toyota Hilux eventually overturned. The Hawks spokesperson in North West, Warrant Officer Amogelang Malwetse said the victim was accosted by armed men, who robbed him of the diamond gravel, pistol and other personal belongings.
“It is reported that while the robbery was still in progress, another Isuzu bakkie was hijacked. Community members that attempted to apprehend the suspects were shot at by the accused. The accused were apprehended and prohibited firearms were recovered.
“The matter was referred to the Klerksdorp-based Hawks Serious Organised Crime Investigation team, who fully investigated the case. Following a series of court appearances, the accused were sentenced to 5 years each on a theft of motor vehicle charge, 15 years each for robbery with aggravating circumstances,” she said.
Malwetse further said they were also sentenced to 15 years imprisonment each for robbery with aggravating circumstances and 4 years each for attempted murders.
She added that each sentenced to 15 years imprisonment for unlawful possession of firearms and 17 years each for possession of unlicensed firearms.
“They were sentenced to 10 years each for possession of firearms and ammunition without a license and the sentences will run concurrently. This means, each accused will serve 17 years in prison,” said Mawetse.
TaungDailyNews 