The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) has welcomed the lengthy prison sentences handed down by the Scottburgh Regional Court to two men convicted of a series of violent robberies in the Umzinto area.
Mfundo Mkhize (19) and Sandile Mqadi (27) were convicted on two counts of robbery with aggravating circumstances. Mkhize was also found guilty on two counts of attempted robbery.
The offences took place in 2024. On 9 and 10 March, the accused allegedly entered two homes in Umzinto while armed and robbed residents of personal belongings, household appliances and cellphones before fleeing the scenes.
In a separate incident on 18 July 2024, two complainants were waiting for transport along the N2 near Magabeni when Mkhize allegedly attempted to rob them of a handbag and a cellphone. One of the victims resisted, leading to a struggle. Police officers arrived during the altercation and arrested Mkhize at the scene. Mqadi was arrested shortly afterwards.
During the trial, Prosecutor Harry du Plessis led evidence from the victims, who detailed the impact of the crimes and the injuries they sustained. The State also presented testimony from SAPS officers involved in the investigation, including those who recovered stolen property belonging to the complainants during a search-and-seizure operation.
Mkhize was sentenced to 15 years’ imprisonment on each count of robbery with aggravating circumstances and five years on each count of attempted robbery. Portions of the sentences will run concurrently, resulting in an effective 20-year prison term.
Mqadi received 15 years’ imprisonment on each count of robbery with aggravating circumstances. The court ordered the sentences to run concurrently, resulting in an effective sentence of 15 years behind bars.
The court also declared both men unfit to possess firearms.
Mqadi’s application for leave to appeal was opposed by the State and subsequently dismissed by the court.
The NPA said it hopes the sentences will serve as a strong deterrent to violent crime and demonstrate the justice system’s commitment to protecting communities from dangerous offenders.
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