SHARPEVILLE – Detective Warrant Officer Mandlakayise Malinga has been hailed after his diligent and thorough investigation ensured the successful conviction of two suspects who were involved in an armed robbery and attempted armed robbery at Thuto-Lore Secondary School in Sector 2 in 2020.

Police spokesperson Sergeant Busisiwe Sango reports that on the day, the police were patrolling in the area when they heard learners screaming inside the school premises. Officers immediately entered the school to investigate and were approached by a witness who reported that three male suspects, one allegedly armed with a firearm, were inside the school during a school event for learners preparing for their final examinations.

“The witness stated that the suspects attempted to rob him of his personal belongings while he was patrolling the school grounds. The suspects also tried to rob a teacher of school fee money, causing panic and a commotion among learners and staff.”

Sango states that the police acted swiftly and arrested two of the suspects on the spot. Sango reports that in 2025, the Vereeniging Magistrate’s Court sentenced accused number one, Robert Godfrey Zwane, to an effective 55 years’ imprisonment after he was convicted on four charges of robbery with aggravating circumstances, reckless endangerment, illegal possession of a firearm, and illegal possession of ammunition.

In a separate court appearance, accused number two, Mathibe Poulous Papa, was sentenced to 12 years’ imprisonment for robbery with aggravating circumstances.

Sharpeville SAPS station commander Colonel Jermina Mapalo Khasuli welcomed the sentences and praised the investigating officer.

“This sentence sends a strong message that criminal activities, especially those targeting schools, will not be tolerated. The full might of the law will be applied,” Khasuli said.