2 robbers are now behind bars after a brazen hold-up of a bakery truck in 2013.
The armed robbery took place in the Ladysmith CBD during the festive season of 2013.
2 men, one of whom was armed with a pistol, robbed the driver and conductor of a bakery truck. The 2 committed the act in full view of the public. They took cash and fled on foot. What they didn’t count on was that the victims, as well as the community and police, would not “turn a blind eye” to their deed.
They were chased down as they attempted to make their getaway, running in the direction of the railway bridge at the lower end of Alexandra Street.
When they noticed that their pursuers were not giving up the chase, the gunman fired a shot. They soon disappeared among the buildings, not realising that police were closing in on them from another direction.
They were traced to premises in Alfred Street, where they were arrested. The gunman was arrested after he was found hiding on the roof of a building. Upon his arrest, he was found in possession of the stolen cash, as well as an illegal firearm. The other suspect was arrested inside the premises.
The 2 were brought before court on several occasions, but the trial could not proceed since the two accused had difficulties in deciding on the ‘appropriate’ attorneys. They remained in custody, facing charges of attempted murder, armed robbery, possession of an illegal firearm and possession of ammunition.
On September 18, the two were found guilty and sentenced as follows:
Victus Phiwokuhle (24) was found guilty on all four counts. On the robbery count, he was sentenced to 10 years, for attempted murder 5 years, possession of an unlicensed firearm 3 years, and possession of ammunition 1 year.
Mbonseni Armstrong Ndladla (20) was found guilty and sentenced to 10 years for robbery and 5 years for attempted murder. Although Ndladla did not fire a shot, he was found guilty of attempted murder through common purpose.
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