The Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (Hawks) in Johannesburg has successfully secured the conviction and sentencing of seven suspects involved in a conspiracy to commit a cash-in-transit robbery, along with multiple other serious charges. The convictions mark a significant victory in the fight against violent crime in the region.
On 7 June 2019, seven suspects were arrested following a planned cash-in-transit robbery at Evaton Mall, Mashoeshoe Street, Sebokeng. The operation, coordinated by The Hawks’ SOCIU, Crime Intelligence Group (CIG), and Flying Squad, led to a confrontation where one suspect, Dennis John Hlatswayo, was fatally shot. Four vehicles, including a stolen silver BMW X1, were seized and impounded for further investigation.
The suspects faced multiple charges, including conspiracy to commit cash-in-transit robbery, murder, attempted murder, possession of prohibited firearms and ammunition, contravention of the Firearms Control Act, and reckless or negligent driving.
The trial commenced on 18 September 2023, and after a thorough judicial process, six of the accused were found guilty on various charges. Accused 1, Lawrence Mabena, was re-arrested on 8 March 2024, after failing to return to court. He is the last individual to be sentenced in this case following the conclusion of his case today, 11 December 2024.
The following sentences were handed down to the convicted individuals:
Patrick Magwaza Ngobeni: 71 years imprisonment, Tumelo Tsikane: 58 years imprisonment, Tefo Khoza: 58 years imprisonment, Erick Rhwababa Khambule: 71 years imprisonment,
Tshepo Ntsiki: 48 years imprisonment, Alby Mthimunye: 58 years imprisonment, Lawrence Mabena: 57 years imprisonment.
All the sentences are cummulative, inclusive of life imprisonment. The sentences will run concurrently with the life sentences imposed for the murder charges, and the accused have been declared unfit to possess firearms.
“The successful conviction and substantial sentences handed down in this case highlight the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation’s resolve in bringing dangerous criminals to justice. We remain committed to maintaining public safety and upholding the rule of law,” stated Major General Ebrahim Kadwa.
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