DIRECT IMPRISONMENT FOR ROBBERS

The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) welcomes the sentences imposed by the Scottburgh Regional Court on Mfundo Mkhize (19) and Sandile Mqadi (27) following their conviction on two counts of robbery with aggravating circumstances. Mkhize was also convicted on two counts of attempted robbery.

The offences were committed in 2024.

On 09 and 10 March 2024, the accused entered two homes in the Umzinto area while armed and robbed the complainants of personal belongings, household appliances and cellphones before fleeing the scenes.

On 18 July 2024, 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 immediate 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 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.

The NPA hopes that sentences of this nature will serve as a deterrent to would-be offenders and reaffirm the justice system's commitment to combating violent crime.

Issued by:

Natasha Ramkisson-Kara

NPA Regional Spokesperson – KwaZulu-Natal Division