Warrant Officer Detective Jaco Meintjes, who has been investigating a house robbery case for the past six years, finally got satisfaction when the case came to a close on 12 July when the three accused were sentenced to 12 years imprisonment.
In November 2011, four men were arrested for a house robbery in Vorna Valley after they were caught by police inside the victims’ home during the robbery. This after police had received an anonymous call regarding the robbery, and speedily responded to the scene.
It emerged that the robbers drove to the house where three of them jumped over the fence and tied up four people, while one remained in the car.
“The case has been proceeding since 2011. Three of the men were in prison for six years for the duration of the trial, having been denied bail. One of the robbers received bail because his case was taken to the High Court and not the Alexandra Magistrates’ Court with the rest of them,” said Meintjes.
The accused, who had remained in the car, was acquitted of all charges against him and released from prison. His three counterparts were all sentenced to 12 years imprisonment, in addition to the six years spent in jail during the trial.
Meintjes said he was pleased with the sentence and feels that justice has been served for the victims who had been traumatised by the incident.
Midrand police pay tribute to fallen hero
The detective has been serving at the Midrand Police Station for 23 years and believes that this sentence will act as a warning that crime does not pay and justice will be served, regardless of how long it may take.
Details: Midrand Police Station 011 347 1600/26.
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