ROBBERS SENTENCED TO HEAVY PRISON TERMS FOR TERRORISING THE COMMUNITY

The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) welcomes the sentence imposed on three accused who were convicted on three counts of robbery with aggravating circumstances and contravention of immigration laws.

The Modimolle Regional Court sentenced Ayke Araminda (31) to 20 years' imprisonment, Power Zimba Majeza (30) to 25 years' imprisonment, and Thabiso Seoketsa (39) of Hammanskraal to 15 years' imprisonment. Araminda and Majeza are Zimbabwean nationals.

All three accused pleaded not guilty to the charges. During the trial, the State led evidence from witnesses who testified that on 3 September 2023, the accused, acting as a syndicate, terrorised members of the Masakhane community by using firearms to rob residents of their cellular phones.

Police were alerted to the incidents on the same evening and swiftly apprehended the suspects. At the time of their arrest, the accused were found in possession of the victims' cellular phones.

In aggravation of sentence, State Prosecutor Joseph Sibanda submitted that the accused were not first-time offenders and had shown no remorse for their actions. He argued that they had terrorised the community, demonstrated a propensity for criminal conduct, and displayed a blatant disregard for the law.

The State further submitted that a severe sentence was warranted to reflect the seriousness of the offences and to serve as a deterrent.

The Director of Public Prosecutions in Limpopo, Advocate Ivy Thenga, stated that the economic costs of organised crime are significant, affecting both local and global economies. These costs encompass the direct impact of criminal activities, such as theft and fraud, as well as indirect costs resulting from increased law enforcement expenditures and lost economic opportunities in affected communities.

Advocate Thenga further commended Prosecutor Sibanda, the South African Police Service, and all stakeholders involved for their commitment and professionalism in securing the successful prosecution and conviction of the accused.

Issued by:

Mashudu Malabi

Regional Spokesperson – Limpopo Division