A former Sibanye-Stillwater employee was handed a tough prison sentence following a theft conviction.

Makutweni Twala, 52, was caught in possession of gold-bearing material by mine security on July 8, 2023.

He appeared in the Oberholzer Magistrate’s Court on October 22, where he was found guilty of theft and sentenced to 12 years behind bars.

Four years of the sentence were suspended for five years on the condition that he is not convicted of the same offence during this period.

Carletonville detective Warrant Officer Claudia Buthelezi was the investigating officer.