12-YEAR SENTENCE FOR MAN WHO ROBBED ELDERLY WOMAN
01 August 2025
12-YEAR SENTENCE FOR MAN WHO ROBBED ELDERLY WOMAN
Colesberg, Northern Cape – The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) in the Northern Cape welcomes the conviction and sentencing of Nkosinathi Mhlakulo (40), who was found guilty of robbery with aggravating circumstances by the Colesberg Regional Court on 28 July 2025. The court further declared the accused unfit to possess a firearm.
The conviction stems from an incident that occurred on 6 June 2025, when Martha Smit (70) was walking home after withdrawing pension money for herself and her husband. At approximately 10h00, she was accosted by the accused, who attempted to grab her handbag. When the victim resisted, Mhlakulo stabbed her in both hands before fleeing with the bag. Despite her injuries, the victim screamed for help. Quick-thinking community members responded and apprehended the accused. He was subsequently arrested by the South African Police Service (SAPS) and later denied bail in the district court.
During trial proceedings, the accused pleaded guilty. The court also heard a powerful Victim Impact Statement, prepared by Court Preparation Officer Sinazo Ndletyana, in which the complainant expressed how the ordeal had left her traumatised, fearful for her safety, and suffering from recurring flashbacks that now require her to take sleeping medication.
The State, led by Regional Court Prosecutor Philisiwe Khoza, emphasised that the victim, as a vulnerable and elderly person, deserved the full protection of the law. While the court found substantial and compelling circumstances to depart from the prescribed minimum sentence, it imposed a sentence of 12 years’ direct imprisonment.
The NPA commends the swift action by members of the community, the SAPS, and the diligent prosecution team that ensured justice was served. “This outcome underscores the NPA’s unwavering commitment to protecting the most vulnerable members of our society. We prosecute hundreds of such cases every day to uphold safety, dignity, and justice for all,” said the prosecution team.
Issued by:
Mojalefa Senokoatsane
NPA Regional Spokesperson
Northern Cape Division
073 423 3539