By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

Rustenburg Regional Court sentenced Musawakhe Malembe (39) to eight years imprisonment over armed robbery.

The Hawks spokesperson in North West, Capt Tlangelani Rikhotso said: “In 2014, Malembe and two others robbed a cellphone store at Boitekong Mall after threatening the employees and customers at gunpoint. They subsequently locked them inside the office.

“The trio proceeded to steal new cellphones worth R123 000 and immediately left the store.”

Rikhotso added that the police were alerted about the incident by one of the customers and arrived at the mall minutes later. She said upon their arrival, they spotted a suspicious vehicle and followed it.

“The accused started shooting at the police and eventually ran on foot in different directions. A chase ensued and two of the accused were arrested whilst two firearms were also recovered.

“They were each released on R10 000 bail and Malembe made a series of court appearances until ultimately being found guilty of business robbery,” said Rikhotso.

Meanwhile Rikhotso said Sipho Mahlangu ( 39 ) absconded and a warrant for his arrest has since been issued.

She said anyone with nformation regarding the whereabouts of the accused as per the attached picture should kindly contact the Investigating Officer Captain Mlungisi Ndlovu at 071 481 2867 or Crime Stop 086010111.

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