In
a recent court case at the Springbok Regional Court in Garies, Siphelo Mzamane,
a Rifle Operator in the South African National Defense Force, received a
20-year prison sentence for robbery with aggravating circumstances, possession
of ammunition, and a semi-automatic firearm. His co-accused, Nkosikhona Apols,
was sentenced to 15 years for robbery, while Nkosinathi Apols was acquitted of
all charges due to his lack of involvement and cooperation with police. The National Prosecuting Authority Regional
Spokesperson, Northern Cape Division, Mojalefa Senokoatsane stated that the
incident occurred on March 17, 2019, when the three men picked up hitchhikers
Justin Wildschut and Jandrè Cupido on their way to Springbok. After providing
alcohol, Mzamane threatened Cupido with a firearm and robbed the victims. The
court ruled on the varying degrees of involvement, leading to the sentences
issued.
Journalist: Rene Julies
Email: rckjulies@gmail.com