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Proving the old saying, “crime does not pay”, six Ladysmith thieves have received hefty sentences for stealing a measly R600. However, their evil choices have left an elderly couple emotionally scarred.
In November 2019, Siphesihle Majola, Sibusiso Dladla, Nduduzo Xulu, Thulani Mbhele, Sithembiso Mbuyazi and Bongani Nxumalo followed their 63-year-old victim, Mohamed Ismail into his house, where they then proceeded to assault him with a gun, before robbing the elderly man and his wife.
National Prosecuting Authority’s (NPA) KZN spokesperson, Natasha Kara further explained that the men took R600 from Ismail before fleeing the scene.
“They were arrested, after one of Ismail’s neighbours, noticed a suspicious vehicle in the area and jotted down the vehicle’s number plate. This information was handed over to the police and the men were found in the vehicle with the money packet taken from Ismail,” stated Kara.
Prior to the Ladysmith Regional Court handing down sentencing, Kara said, in court, Regional Court Prosecutor Ashina Devi Singh presented the witness’s evidence, as well as cellphone data and records.
“Adv. Singh also led the testimonies of the victims, who told the court that the incident has traumatised them and they would be relocating.”
As a result, the Ladysmith Regional Court sentenced Majola, Dladla, Xulu, Mbhele, Mbuyazi and Nxumalo to 15 years imprisonment each, for the robbery.
Majola, Xulu, and Nxumalo have been sentenced to a further eight years and six months imprisonment, for unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition. “The NPA applauds this successful prosecution and commends the work done by the Prosecution and the Investigating team,” declared Kara.
With the six men now sentenced to sit several years behind bars for R600, what are your thoughts?
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