BANK ROBBERS SENTENCED FOR THE MURDER OF THEIR ACCOMPLICE

The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) has secured an effective 20-year term of imprisonment against Dumisani Duma (38) and Makabongwe Mthongana Mkhize (37) in the Eastern Cape Division of the High Court, Mthatha, for robbery with aggravating circumstances and the murder of their accomplice, who was killed during a shootout with police following the robbery of the U-Bank branch in Dutywa on 03 November 2022.

The court convicted and sentenced the pair on charges of murder, conspiracy to commit robbery, two counts of robbery with aggravating circumstances, two counts of attempted murder, and offences relating to the unlawful possession of firearms and ammunition. They received sentences ranging from five to 15 years for the various offences. While some sentences were ordered to run concurrently and others consecutively, the court imposed an effective sentence of 20 years' direct imprisonment on each accused.

Evidence presented before the court established that the accused, together with their deceased accomplice, had conspired to rob the bank and armed themselves to overcome any resistance. On the day of the robbery, they entered the bank, threatened employees with firearms, and stole approximately R600 000 in cash. During their escape, they used a bank employee as a human shield.

The trio subsequently used the same firearms to hijack a vehicle after assaulting and threatening its owner. A pursuit involving police and members of the public followed, ending near the Beyele turn-off in the neighbouring Ngcobo district. During a shootout between the robbers and police officers, their accomplice, Lungile Jamiso, was fatally wounded.

Duma and Mkhize were arrested at the scene, and the stolen money was recovered. Despite the overwhelming evidence against them, both accused pleaded not guilty and offered bare denials. Senior State Advocate Mduduzi Mzila led the testimony of more than 15 witnesses, resulting in their conviction on all counts.

In aggravation of sentence, the court noted that both offenders were on parole for cash-in-transit robbery convictions when they committed these offences. The court further remarked that Duma had previously sustained serious injuries, including partial paralysis of an arm during another robbery, yet remained undeterred from engaging in further violent criminal conduct.

Welcoming the sentence, the NPA said the outcome demonstrates the justice system's determination to hold violent offenders accountable and send a strong message that organised and violent crime will be met with firm consequences.

The NPA remains steadfast in its commitment to prosecuting violent offenders and will continue to pursue sentences that reflect the seriousness of offences, protect communities, and uphold the interests of justice.

Issued by:

Luxolo Tyali

Regional Spokesperson: Eastern Cape Division