4 men sentenced for fatally shooting Egyptian businessman after robbing him R122,500! The Springbok High Court in the Northern Cape has sentenced four men, including two Botswana nationals, to lengthy prison terms for the murder of Egyptian businessman Khalil Lofty Ghazy during a robbery outside the Kekkel en Kraai shop in Springbok.
Sentences for the Convicted
Northern Cape police spokesperson Colonel Cherelle Ehlers confirmed that the four accused, Ditiro Brooks (28), Rapaleng Brooks (27)—siblings from Botswana—Kgagamatso Mokoding (42), and Ohentse Bless (30) were handed the following sentences:
- 25 years’ imprisonment for murder.
- 18 years’ imprisonment for robbery.
- 5 years’ imprisonment for the illegal possession of firearms and ammunition.
The court ruled that the sentences would run concurrently, effectively making the murder conviction the primary term of imprisonment.
Details of the Crime
The robbery and murder occurred on February 1, 2021, when the group carried out a meticulously planned crime. Armed with firearms, the men confronted Ghazy outside his business, robbing him of R122,500 before fatally shooting him.
After the crime, the group fled in a rented car and sought refuge at a tavern owned by one of the accused, Thamsanqa Khaum, who has since passed away.
Police Investigation and Arrests
Swift action by the South African Police Service (SAPS) led to the apprehension of the suspects. The stolen money was recovered, and the firearms used in the robbery were found hidden in the vehicle’s boot.
Ohentse Bless was arrested at a roadblock in Kathu, while the other suspects were apprehended shortly afterward. None of the accused were granted bail, and they remained in custody throughout the trial until their sentencing.
Colonel Ehlers praised the swift police work, saying, “This case demonstrates the dedication of our officers to ensuring justice is served, particularly in cases of violent and premeditated crimes.”
Another Armed Robbery Thwarted in KwaZulu-Natal
In a separate incident, police in KwaZulu-Natal arrested a suspect linked to an armed robbery in Amanzimtoti. The arrest followed a shootout between police and the suspects in Durban, at the corner of Albany Grove and Victoria Embankment.
KZN police spokesperson Colonel Robert Netshiunda provided details of the robbery, which involved a businessman who had just withdrawn money from a bank.
Details of the Incident
As the businessman arrived at the gate of his business premises in Amanzimtoti, he was accosted by three armed men. The suspects robbed him of a bag containing personal belongings and a small amount of cash.
Interestingly, a larger sum of money that the businessman had withdrawn earlier was left untouched in the vehicle.
The suspects fled the scene, prompting police to pursue them. The chase culminated in a shootout, during which one suspect was apprehended.
Increasing Threats of Armed Robberies
Both incidents underscore the growing concern over armed robberies in South Africa, particularly those targeting business owners. The involvement of organized groups and the use of firearms highlight the dangers posed to citizens and law enforcement alike.
Law enforcement agencies, including the SAPS and Hawks, continue to prioritize such cases to send a strong message against violent crime.
A Message from Authorities
The sentences handed down in the Springbok case reflect the judiciary’s commitment to addressing violent crimes with severity.
Meanwhile, the swift action in the Durban robbery case emphasizes the importance of vigilance and coordination in tackling organized criminal activities.
Colonel Ehlers and Colonel Netshiunda have reiterated the need for community cooperation in reporting crimes and supporting investigations to ensure safer communities across South Africa.
For the victims, justice in these cases represents a measure of closure, though the impact of the crimes will undoubtedly linger.
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