Two men convicted of a string of violent robberies in the mid-South Coast area were handed lengthy prison sentences by the Scottburgh Regional Court recently.

On March 9 and 10, 2024, the accused Mfundo Mkhize (19) and Sandile Mqadi (27), entered two homes in the Umzinto area while armed, and robbed the complainants of personal belongings, household appliances and cellphones before fleeing the scenes.

The same year on July 18, two complainants were waiting for transport on the N2 freeway near the Magabeni area when Mkhize attempted to rob them of a handbag and a cellphone. One of the complainants resisted and struggled with Mkhize. During the altercation, police officers arrived at the scene, resulting in Mkhize’s arrest. Mqadi was arrested shortly thereafter.

During the trial, Prosecutor Harry du Plessis led the evidence of the complainants, who testified about the impact of the offences and the injuries they sustained.

The State also presented evidence from Saps officers who conducted a search and seizure operation during which property belonging to the complainants was recovered from the accused.

The arresting officer also testified.

Mkhize was sentenced to 15 years’ imprisonment on each count of robbery with aggravating circumstances and five years’ imprisonment on each count of attempted robbery. The court ordered portions of the sentences to run concurrently, resulting in an effective sentence of 20 years’ imprisonment.

Mqadi was sentenced to 15 years’ imprisonment on each count of robbery with aggravating circumstances. The sentences were also ordered to run concurrently, resulting in an effective sentence of 15 years’ imprisonment.

Mqadi’s application for leave to appeal was opposed by the state and subsequently refused by the court. Both accused were declared unfit to possess firearms.

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