RUSTENBURG HERALD - RUSTENBURG – The Acting Bojanala Platinum Sub-District 2 Commissioner, Brigadier Mamotsamai Ntoagae, has welcomed the direct imprisonment of 27-year-old Karabo Mlambo and 29-year-old Keabetswe Dinake, who were sentenced by the Tlhabane Magistrate’s Court on Thursday, 16 May.
According to Rustenburg police Spokesperson, Sgt Ofentse Mokgadi, the two convicted individuals were part of a group suspected of terrorising members of the community along the busy Lebone Street, leading towards Rustenburg Noord.
Their arrest followed a robbery that took place on the evening of 21 May 2024, during which a couple was accosted while sitting in their vehicle near a scrapyard along Lebone Street. It is alleged that Mlambo and Dinake, along with a third suspect, approached the victims, drew knives, and forcefully took their cell phones. They also pepper-sprayed the victims, damaged the vehicle, and fled the scene.
The incident was immediately reported to the police, and the investigation was assigned to Detective Warrant Officer Khomotjo Matlala, who was already probing a series of similar robberies in the area. Through diligent work, both suspects were traced and arrested.
Keabetswe Dinake was denied bail due to a previously suspended sentence in another matter. Karabo Mlambo was initially granted bail but later absconded. He was rearrested thereafter.
Following a successful prosecution, Mlambo was sentenced to three years’ direct imprisonment, while Dinake received a five-year prison term. Both were convicted of robbery and declared unfit to possess a firearm.
Brigadier Ntoagae commended Detective Warrant Officer Matlala and the entire prosecution team for their dedication and professionalism. She also expressed her appreciation to the victims for their courage, cooperation, and patience throughout the investigation and court process.
