A suspect linked to a robbery in Observation Hill in 2024 has finally been brought to book for his crime. Mbambo Nhlakanipho recently appeared in the Ezakheni Magistrate’s Court, where a hefty sentence was handed down.

Brave victim fights off her attacker

According to police spokesperson Warrant Officer Basheer Khan, a 72-year-old woman bravely fought off an assailant at her home in Observation Hill in September 2024. The suspect, who was known to her by sight, had asked for food before following her inside, where he attempted to assault her.

Acting on instinct, the woman bit her attacker, forcing him to release her.

Suspect flees scene

Injured and shaken, the man grabbed a small amount of cash and a cellphone before fleeing.

Police were alerted, and a case of house robbery and attempted rape was opened.

Forensic evidence was collected at the scene.

Investigation and arrest

Sergeant BX Zwane from the Ladysmith SAPS Serious Crime Investigation Unit led the case, working alongside the uThukela Crime Intelligence Unit and K9 Unit. Although Nhlakanipho initially evaded arrest, the victim later spotted him in the CBD and alerted police. He was arrested in Alexandra Street. 

Court proceedings

Nhlakanipho appeared in the Ezakheni Magistrate’s Court, where he denied the charges, claiming mistaken identity. Despite delays in forensic results, investigators proceeded with trial preparations.

Forensic breakthrough and sentencing

Forensic analysis later confirmed his link to the crime. Faced with the evidence, Nhlakanipho pleaded guilty and was sentenced to 18 years’ imprisonment. He was also declared unfit to possess a firearm and has been added to the national register of sexual offenders.

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