While most people are preparing for a deserved end-of-year break, three men have started serving hefty sentences for a variety of serious crimes committed in Tembisa and neighbouring areas.
Ivory Park SAPS spokesperson Captain Bernard Matimulane said his superior, Brigadier David Mbongeni Ngcobo, has welcomed the sentences recently handed to the three men by the Tembisa Magistrate’s Court.
“The men were sentenced for hijacking, attempted murder, business robberies, possession of unlicensed firearms and ammunition, and kidnapping,” Matimulane said.
“Jabu Sithole, 36, and Sibusiso Ndlovu, 33, were each sentenced to 50 years in prison, while the third convict, Muzi Hlatshwayo, 31, was sentenced to 25 years in prison. The three, who are all from Tembisa, commenced their sentences this month.”
According to Matimulane, the three men were arrested by the Ivory Park police in August 2015 shortly after they hijacked and kidnapped a woman at gun-point in Ebony Park, Midrand.
“Police began searching for the vehicle as per specifications given to them,” Matimulane said.
“SAPS members came across the vehicle, gave chase, and ended up recovering the vehicle and two firearms, arresting three of the four suspects, and rescuing the victim.
“The fourth one is still at large and the police haven’t stopped looking for him.
“Police opposed bail from the start as it transpired shortly after their arrests that all three of them are repeat offenders,” Matimulane added.
“Some of the crimes were committed in Tembisa.”
Brigadier Ngcobo said the sentences would serve as a strong deterrent to those who knew the suspects and harboured criminal aspirations of their own.
“Hopefully the community of Ivory Park, Tembisa and the adjacent areas will breathe a sigh of relief,” Ngcobo said. “Credit must be given to the members whose quick response led to the speedy arrest, and to the detective officer whose tireless efforts resulted in the conviction.”
Anyone with information relating to any crime is urged to call 08600 10111 or to SMS Crime Line at 32211.
