Durban - A Durban North family of four, who were held up in their home during a house robbery in 2020, says the conviction and sentencing of two men in connection with the crime has given them a sense of closure.
The family were commenting after the case against the men was finalised on September 30.
According to the National Prosecuting Authority, the accused, Linda Mfeka was recently sentenced in the Durban Regional Court to 20 years’ imprisonment for armed robbery as well as 10 years for three counts of attempted murder, while Smanga Sibisi was sentenced to 18 years’ imprisonment for armed robbery as well as 10 years for three counts of attempted murder.
The sentences were ordered to run concurrently so the men will serve effective sentences of 20 and 18 years’ imprisonment.
In a statement, security company Marshall Security’s Tyron Powell said the firm was glad that justice had finally been done.
“On the night of the incident, Marshall Security was informed of a house robbery in progress, where the suspects had stolen various items, including jewellery and electronic items.
“Members of our special operations team, working with the Durban North SAPS, proceeded to investigate and managed to acquire the location of the suspects, who were allegedly selling the stolen items in the Bhambayi area near Inanda.”
Powell said after a shoot-out and short foot chase, two suspects were arrested.
Describing what happened on the night of the incident, the woman said she and her husband were in their home with their children at about 7pm when they were held up by the robbers.
“When the assailants left, the panic alarm was sounded and within minutes, Marshall Security and the SAPS were at our gate. Two members from Marshall assisted with tracking the suspects down. Marshall and SAPS returned at 1am with the news of the successful arrests of two suspects and the recovery of many stolen goods.”
She praised Marshall Security for their “dedication, bravery and concern”.
“It’s their commitment that allowed God’s will to be done and justice to be served. A sentence of 20 years for one assailant and 18 for the other, assures me that we can have faith in our local security company and police,” she said.
“My husband and I have been victims of crime many times in our lives. This conviction brings a sense of peace and closure, especially to our two children who were subjected to fear and trauma that night.”