SEVEN suspected members of a dangerous cash-heist syndicate, who allegedly repeatedly robbed large sums of money from G4S Security employees at gunpoint, are on trial in the Mtuba High Court.
The gang is also charged with attempting to kill three people, in a spree of violence from 22 May to 9 September 2013.
The accused are Dickson Zithazakhe Nene (42) of Mtubatuba, Ephraim Ntokozo Dube (29) of Esikhaweni, Vusi Gina (31) of Dukuduku, Thuthukani Mnguni (31) of Esikhaweni, Phumlani Sithembiso Mvelase (29) of Esikhaweni, Bongani Siyabonga Ntuli (28) of Machibini and Enock Khulekani Mbatha (36) also of Machibini.
The indictment contains 16 counts including theft, robbery with aggravating circumstances, attempted murder, unlawful possession of a prohibited firearm and unlawful possession of ammunition.
The State, represented by State Advocate Dorian Paver, is alleging that the accused and others conspired to form a syndicate with the common purpose to target and rob employees of G4S at the Spar store at Hlabisa, Power Spar store at Mtubatuba, Spar store at Hluhluwe and Boxer Super City store at Empangeni
The State further says the accused armed themselves because they realised they would possibly use force to achieve their objectives, overcome resistance or escape.
Their modus operandi was to confront the employees at gunpoint inside the stores, whereafter they were dispossessed of the cash.
The case is presided over by Judge Trevor Gorven.
Judgement is expected next week.
