3 suspects arrested for robbery of a liquor store in Sebokeng

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Three suspects were arrested in Sebokeng soon after they were allegedly involved in the robbery of a liquor store on Wednesday.

According to reports, the suspects who were involved in a shootout with the police were found in possession of unlicensed firearms. 

Gauteng police spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel Mavela Masondo said their members received information about a gang that was planning to commit an armed robbery at a liquor store in Sebokeng Plaza.  

He stated that a tactical and take-down operation was launched by members of police crime intelligence in conjunction with members of Sedibeng tactical response team, Sedibeng K9, Benoni tactical response team, BAS Specialized Operations and Tracker Connect.

“After the suspects committed the robbery at a liquor store, they were accosted by law enforcement officers on their way to the getaway vehicle.

“A shootout between the operational team and the suspects ensured. One suspect was shot and injured. The other two suspects were arrested without injuries. Two firearms were recovered from the suspects. 

“Police are on the lookout for suspects who escaped from the crime scene,” Masondo added. 

Meanwhile, the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (Hawks) in Johannesburg has successfully secured the conviction and sentencing of seven suspects involved in cash-in-transit robbery case.

On 7 June 2019, seven suspects were arrested following a planned cash-in-transit robbery at Evaton Mall, Moshoeshoe Street, Sebokeng, confirmed Hawks spokesperson Captain Lloyd Ramovha.

He stated that the operation, coordinated by The Hawks’ SOCIU, Crime Intelligence Group (CIG), and Flying Squad, led to a confrontation where one suspect, Dennis John Hlatshwayo, was fatally shot.

Adding that four vehicles, including a stolen silver BMW X1, were seized and impounded for further investigation.

“The suspects faced multiple charges, including conspiracy to commit cash-in-transit robbery, murder, attempted murder, possession of prohibited firearms and ammunition, contravention of the Firearms Control Act, and reckless or negligent driving.

Suspects in CIT robbery sentenced

“The trial commenced on 18 September 2023, and after a thorough judicial process, six of the accused were found guilty on various charges.

“Accused 1, Lawrence Mabena, was re-arrested on 8 March 2024, after failing to return to court. He is the last individual to be sentenced in this case following the conclusion of his case on Wednesday, 11 December,” he explained.

Patrick Magwaza Ngobeni received 71 years in prison, Tumelo Tsikane(58 years in jail), Tefo Khoza(58 years), Erick Rhwababa Khambule(71 years), Tshepo Ntsiki(48 years), Alby Mthimunye(58 years), and Lawrence Mabena was sentenced to 57 years.

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Ramovha said all the sentences, including life in prison, are cumulative.

He continued; “The sentences will run concurrently with the life sentences imposed for the murder charges, and the accused have been declared unfit to possess firearms.”

Major General Ebrahim Kadwa said the convictions mark a significant victory in the fight against violent crime in the region.

“The successful conviction and substantial sentences handed down in this case highlight the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation’s resolve in bringing dangerous criminals to justice. We remain committed to maintaining public safety and upholding the rule of law,” he stated.