Three suspects were sentenced on March 19 at the Benoni Regional Court after committing a business robbery in 2017.
Lucky Zitha (43) and Sphamandla Ngubane (30) were sentenced to 15 years’ imprisonment for robbery with aggravating circumstances and five years for theft.
Ephraim Mohapi (46) was sentenced to three years for possession of an unlicensed firearm and ammunition; however, the sentence was suspended.
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Putfontein SAPS spokesperson Sgt Raider Ubisi said on April 9, 2017, the suspects committed a business robbery at a scrapyard on the corner of Lurie Road and Kerk Street, Putfontein.
“The suspects tied up the security guard who was on duty at the business and they stole car rims, tyres, computer boxes, generators, compressors, lawnmower and vehicle registration documents,” said Ubisi.
“With the help of an informer and a detailed investigation, five suspects were arrested and the stolen goods were recovered with the firearm used during the robbery.”
Ubisi said one of the suspects who were arrested was released by the court and the other turned state witness.
Acting station commander Capt Isaac Monashana commended the investigating officer Det Sgt Teboho Koko for the thorough investigation and his dedication with the case.
On March 19, business robber Petros Sithole was sentenced to 18 years’ imprisonment for robbery with aggravating circumstances, possession of an unlicensed firearm, possession of ammunition and escaping while on police custody.
The 43-year-old committed a business robbery on June 17, 2018, at Chief Albert Luthuli.
Crystal Park SAPS spokesperson Sgt Lerato Mopeli said Sithole was arrested on June 18, 2018, around the area. However, when he was transported to the Benoni SAPS holding cells, he escaped but he was rearrested later on the same day.
“He stole three cellphones, airtime, cigarettes and groceries,” said Mopeli.
The station commander, Lt Col Belinda Motaung, commended Koko for the job well done.
