Young man jailed for gunpoint robbery
Police: Harsh sentences such as these should serve as a deterrent to like-minded criminals.
A 26-year-old man who threatened to shoot three youngsters for their money and cell phones has been convicted of three counts of aggravated robbery.
Willie Rasool was found guilty on all three of the charges against him and was sentenced to 12 years imprisonment for each of the three charges which will run concurrently. This adds up to 36 years imprisonment for Rasool. He will, however, be eligible for parole after effectively serving eight years imprisonment.
Captain Appel Ernst, spokesperson for the Randfontein Police confirmed the man robbed three young victims of their money and cell phones in Toekomsrus. He had a gun in his possession and threatened to shoot the youngsters.
He was arrested shortly after the incident which occurred on Friday 19 September, 2014. His accomplice was later arrested but was released in July of this year as the case against him was withdrawn,” Ernst said.
Vusi Mahlangu prosecuted on behalf of the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) and the presiding officer, Ettienne van Niekerk found the man guilty.
The Randfontein Police management applauded investigating officer, warrant officer Bongani Mpete for his thorough investigation and for the successful manner in which he concluded the investigation. They would also like to commend the NPA for their stern approach in the case.
Harsh sentences such as these should serve as a deterrent to like-minded criminals,” Ernst said.
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Also read:
Friends robbed at gunpoint at train station
Pupils robbed at gunpoint identify suspects
Man held up at gunpoint at ATM
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