A Lesotho national gets over 170 years imprisonment for numerous crimes
Estimated reading time: 7 minute(s)
An intense and thorough criminal investigations by police for crimes committed in between 2011 and 2019 has finally led to a successful prosecution and sentencing of a man who have been in police custody four almost four (4) years now.
Police Spokesperson in the North West Captain Sam Tselanyane said that 44 years old Thabang Malonga who is also a Lesotho national terrorised community members in and around Sondela and Freedom Park informal settlements, outside Rustenburg with his accomplices who are on the run.
Captain Tselanyane said that Malonga was found guilty by Mogwase Regional Court on several charges which included robbery with aggravating circumstances, unlawful possession of firearms and ammunition, attempted murder to several counts of murder.
In some instances, the said criminal acts by Malonga and his friends led to serious injuries and death.
“The convict who was regarded as the group leader, was arrested on numerous occasions for murder and unlawful possession of firearms between 2011 and 2016. Some of his cases were withdrawn pending investigations and decisions. In 2018, all dockets in which Malonga was the suspect, were centralised to a dedicated team of seasoned Detectives for investigation.”
“Consequent to finalisation of the investigations, the dockets were taken to the Director of Public Prosecutions who in turn decided to prosecute.”
“A search for Malonga was instituted and he was finally arrested and brought before the court. He was released on bail and thereafter absconded, thus breached his bail conditions. Moreover, after a lengthy period of time, he was re-arrested in Krugersdorp after being found in possession of a firearm unlawfully in 2019.”
Tselanyane added that he had been in police custody since his arrest.
He was given 7 life sentences plus 175 years imprisonment combined for all the crimes.
The Provincial Commissioner of North West, Lieutenant General Sello Kwena lauded the Bojanala Platinum Sub-District 2 Trio Task Team, Detective Captain Dipotso Montsho and Detective Sergeant Sethunya Tobokane as well as Warrant Officer France Tsoela of Rustenburg Crime Intelligence for their tireless efforts to ensure that justice is served.
He also extended a word of appreciation to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) for their role and guidance that led to securing of the conviction.
