Mthombo Aaron Mbuli (36) was sentenced to 15 years imprisonment for business robbery in Amersfoort in the early hours of August 18, last year.
The Provincial Commissioner of Police, Lieut-Gen Semakaleng Daphney Manamela, welcomed the sentence that was handed down by the Amersfoort Regional Court on May 19.
According to a statement dated May 19, the culprit, who was armed at the time, is said to have staged a robbery at a local shop in Ezamokuhle.
When the owner, an Ethopian national, heard a strange noise on the roof, he quickly alerted an off-duty police officer living nearby.
The officer immediately responded and called for back-up.
Police went to join the off-duty member at the scene and upon arrival, Mbulit tried to flee.
When his attempts failed, he shot at the police who in turn defended themselves and shot back.
Mbuli was found with a pistol, as well as ammunition in his possession.
He sustained some injuries, but was arrested and taken to hospital.
After receiving treatment, he was charged accordingly and discharged from hospital.
Mbuli was taken to court and convicted for a count of house breaking with the intent to rob, as well as for robbery with aggravating circumstances.
An additional declaration was made that he is unfit to possess a firearm.
Lieut-Gen Manamela applauded the officer for responding to the call of duty and showed appreciation for the collaborative effort of the investigation team, the prosecution team and the judiciary.
“We are encouraged by the court sentence and hope it will somehow restore public confidence in the justice system, while sending a strong message to criminals that crime does not pay,” the General said.
