THREE people have been sentenced to 22 years imprisonment each for their part in five ATM bombings between December 2010 and February 2011.
The Madadeni High Court convicted Gcinaphi Mnguni (27) for her role in the commissioning of these crimes and sentenced her to 22 years imprisonment.
Mnguni’s co-accused, Maqhawe Nzimande (38) and Sakhiwe Khumalo (38) received the same sentence for their use of explosives, possession of explosives, house breaking and malicious damage to property.
A further five co-accused face the same charges and are waiting to be convicted.
On 31 December 2010 two ATMs in Umzinto were bombed and the cash stolen.
In February 2011 an ATM in Highflats was bombed and the cash was stolen.
On 26 January 2011 an ATM in Ixopo was bombed and the cash was stolen.
Finally, on 17 February 2011 the group bombed an ATM in Ingwavuma.
Every bombed ATM was located at a supermarket and the same suspects were involved in all the bombings.
KZN Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant General Mmamonnye Ngobeni, welcomed the heavy sentences.
‘We hope the sentence[s] will serve as a warning to other criminals who think of committing such crimes,’ said Ngobeni.
She concluded by commending the good work displayed by the police officers involved in the investigation of these cases.
