Bonkinkosi Mpetsheni, 35, one of the armed robbers who targeted a Mexican restaurant in the Randfontein CBD in February last year, has been sentenced to a total of 58 years imprisonment on eight charges.
The sentences will, however, run concurrently and he will effectively be imprisoned for 18 years.
On 13 February 2016, the owner of the Mochachos restaurant situated on Main Reef Road was the target of a group of armed robbers. The foiled business robbery which occurred in the restaurant was recently finalised in the Johannesburg High Court.
Read the initial article here: Suspect shot dead outside restaurant
Captain Appel Ernst, Randfontein Police spokesperson said, “The 35-year-old Mpetsheni, who was caught shortly after the incident occurred, was found guilty on eight charges which included murder, attempted murder, armed robbery, and possession of an unlicensed firearm and ammunition.”
Ernst continued saying, “Early that Saturday morning, at about 1am, it was alleged the owner was closing his shop when a black Volkswagen Jetta stopped directly behind him and his vehicle which was parked in front of the shop. The occupants of the vehicle allegedly opened fire on the man, who was also armed. He started shooting back at the suspects. A West Rand Flying Squad vehicle doing routine patrols in the area was also targeted and the suspects in the Jetta started shooting at the police vehicle.
“The two police officers returned fire and the suspects allegedly scattered. One of the suspects, an adult male, was fatally wounded during the crossfire and another suspect was arrested approximately 200 metres from the scene by a passing security vehicle. Two firearms belonging to the suspects were recovered on the scene.”
The Randfontein Police vehicle was damaged during the incident but no injuries were sustained by the police members.
Brigadier Manamela, Randfontein Police station commander applauded the investigation officer, members of the National Prosecuting Authority and the judicial system for the stance taken in this matter.
“Violent crimes are a headache to any station precinct and these sentences are proof that there is no escaping the long arm of the law.
Congratulations to Warrant Officer Thabiso Duiker for the efforts he made in the investigation of this case,” said Brigadier Manamela.
Manamela went on to say that Duiker’s determination is applauded. He also thanked the other role-players who secured the sentence.
“Together we can rid Randfontein of the violent criminal element,” he said.
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