25 YEARS DIRECT IMPRISONMENT FOR ROBBERS

The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) welcomes the sentencing of Sbusiso Khumalo (39) and Sihle Bright Mnguni (42) to an effective 25 years’ direct imprisonment by the Scottburgh Regional Court, following their conviction on two counts of robbery with aggravating circumstances. On 09 September 2023, Khumalo and Mnguni robbed a spice shop in the Umzinto area on two separate occasions.

During the first incident, which took place in the morning, the complainant, an employee at the shop, had just opened for business when the accused entered and demanded money at knifepoint. When she informed them there was no money in the till at that early stage, they stole various spices valued at R560 and fled. Later that same day, at approximately 15:30, the accused returned to the shop carrying a bag. They again threatened the complainant with a knife, holding it to her neck, while packing boxes of spices into the bag. They stole goods valued at R3,500 before fleeing. The complainant recognised the accused, as they were known in the area and had previously been customers at the shop.

The matter was reported to the police. Although the complainant knew the accused's names, she did not know where they resided. The accused were subsequently arrested in April 2024 while in custody for another matter. The stolen items were not recovered.

During the trial, Prosecutor Lindokuhle Gumede led the evidence of both the complainant and an eyewitness, who operated a business nearby. The eyewitness, who was also known to the accused, corroborated the complainant’s account, having witnessed both incidents.

In aggravation of sentence, the complainant informed the court that the shop was forced to close following the robberies, resulting in her losing her job. She experienced significant hardship and was ultimately compelled to relocate to her home area.

In handing down the sentence, the court applied the prescribed minimum sentence of 15 years’ imprisonment on each count of robbery with aggravating circumstances. The court ordered that five years of the sentence imposed on the second count run concurrently with the sentence on the first count, resulting in an effective sentence of 25 years’ imprisonment for each accused. Both accused were also declared unfit to possess a firearm. The sentencing proceedings were handled by Prosecutor Thanusha Govender.

The NPA welcomes the sentence and hopes it sends a strong message that those who target local businesses will be held accountable.

Issued by:

Natasha Ramkisson

NPA Regional Spokesperson – KZN Division