The Chatsworth Regional Court on 30 November 2020, sentenced Mduduzi Shembe (32) to thirty-two years imprisonment for robbery, escaping from lawful custody as well as illegal possession of a firearm and ammunition,.
On 5 March 2019, Shembe (32) was appearing at Umbumbulu Magistrate’s Court for illegal possession of a firearm and a number of rape cases. While at the holding cells, he robbed a police officer of his firearm and shot his way out. He jumped into a getaway vehicle and they drove off.
A chase by police officers from Umbumbulu and neighbouring stations ensued. Police officers cornered the accused along Mega Philani and he was re-arrested. Police furthermore charged Shembe for robbery, escaping and illegal possession of a firearm and ammunition.
He made several appearances in court whilst being held in custody. The court convicted and sentenced him to fifteen year for robbery, ten years for escaping from lawful custody and seven years for illegal possession of a firearm. The accused will still stand trial for the cases of rape where he remains accused.
The KwaZulu Natal Provincial Commissioner Lieutenant General Khombinkosi Jula welcomed the sentence, which was a result of the escape from lawful custody.
South Africa Today – South Africa News
