Bhekuyise Sibiya (24), Mfanafuthi Thwala (24) and Andile Zwane (27) have been convicted for armed robbery.
The accused were found guilty of armed robbery of an Allen Farm home on March, 15, 2012. The court heard that the men entered the premises pretending to buy airtime.
They then entered the house wearing balaclavas and were armed.
They threatened the victim with a firearm and demanded goods from him. They escaped with cash, a DVD player, a TV, a DSTV decoder, airtime, shoes and cellphones to the value of R13 000.
Investigating Officer, W/O Sipho Mgabhi, followed leads and tracked down the suspects in the Annieville area.
They were arrested and appeared in the Newcastle Regional Court where they were sentenced.
Andile Zwane received 13 years for robbery and Luyanda Thwala received 23 years for robbery, possession of firearms and ammunition.
Bhekuyise Sibiya received 23 years for robbery and for rape. He was found guilty of raping a minor after the robbery.
A fourth accused was found not guilty. All the accused were declared unfit to possess a firearm.
Station Commander, Major Ntanda, commended Detective W/O Mgabhi for doing an excellent job.