MAN SENTENCED TO 15 YEARS FOR ROBBERY WITH AGGRAVATING CIRCUMSTANCES PEDDIE, EASTERN CAPE
04 August 2025
MAN SENTENCED TO 15 YEARS FOR ROBBERY WITH AGGRAVATING CIRCUMSTANCES PEDDIE, EASTERN CAPE
The Peddie Regional Court has sentenced Mthozami Mtsewu (35) to 15 years’ direct imprisonment for robbery with aggravating circumstances, after he and an accomplice violently robbed a man and his family at gunpoint under false pretences.
On 21 September 2023, the 41-year-old complainant was approached by Mtsewu in Peddie town and asked to transport three bags of cement for a payment of R300. The complainant, who was accompanied by his girlfriend and their 18-month-old child, agreed to assist.
The accused and his accomplice, who has since committed suicide while in custody, led the family to a secluded area in Crossman Village under the guise of collecting the cement. Once there, the pair drew a firearm, tied the complainant and his partner’s arms and legs with cable ties, and fired two shots into the air to intimidate them all in the presence of the young child. They fled the scene with the family's white Nissan bakkie, three cellphones, R1200 in cash, and other personal belongings.
The vehicle was traced to East London using tracking technology, where Mtsewu was arrested inside the vehicle just two hours later. His accomplice initially evaded arrest but was later apprehended.
During sentencing, Acting Regional Court Prosecutor Thobani Matyeni argued for a punishment that reflected the severity of the crime and its enduring psychological impact. The State led the evidence of the complainant, his partner, and Warrant Officer Zingitwa. Both civilian witnesses became visibly emotional during their testimony, prompting multiple adjournments to allow them time to compose themselves.
The NPA’s Court Preparation Programme supported the victims throughout the trial. Court Preparation Officer (CPO) Busisiwe Matyalana facilitated the submission of Victim Impact Statements (VIS) in which the complainant and his partner detailed the trauma they continue to suffer. They recalled how their toddler remained nearby, innocently playing and unaware of the danger. After the robbers fled, the child, following the parents’ instructions, retrieved a broken bottle, which they used to cut themselves free. The VIS described ongoing emotional distress, including persistent anxiety, sleepless nights, and fear that the accused might return.
Mtsewu pleaded not guilty and offered a bare denial, which the court rejected as “not reasonably possibly true.” He was found guilty and sentenced to 15 years’ direct imprisonment. He was also declared unfit to possess a firearm. The court considered his previous conviction for stock theft in 2013 as an aggravating factor.
Welcoming the sentence, Eastern Cape Director of Public Prosecutions, Mr Barry Madolo, said: “This was a cruel and calculated act committed in the presence of a child. The victims were left deeply traumatised. We commend the Prosecutor, SAPS, and the Court Preparation Officer for their professionalism and dedication in securing this conviction. This outcome sends a clear message that violent crime will not be tolerated.”
The National Prosecuting Authority remains committed to ensuring justice for all victims and upholding the safety and dignity of communities across South Africa.
Issued by:
Luxolo Tyali
Regional Spokesperson
Eastern Cape Division
National Prosecuting Authority
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