A MAN who pleaded guilty on Thursday to two counts of robbery with aggravating circumstances, stands to receive at least two minimum 15-year sentences when the trial resumes on Wednesday.
Appearing in the Richards Bay Regional Court before magistrate Mr Kunene, accused Siyabonga Sanele Mbambo admitted he had been the mastermind of a robbery at the residence of a well-known Zululand business person in Kolstertkring, Meerensee on 22 May this year.
Jewellery and R400 000 in cash was taken from the premises and driven away in the householder’s bakkie.
In his evidence, Mbamo said he had been approached by a man who gave him details of who lived in the house, and the valuables that were kept there.
He was given the names of the domestic worker and the elderly security guard at the gate of the premises and a plan was hatched to commit the crime.
Armed with pistols, Mbambo and accomplices hit the house at around 2am, forcing the occupants to hand over goods, cash and car keys.
He said the money was later split among the gang.
Appearing for the State, prosecutor Sharon Bux asked for a postponement while awaiting a victim impact statement from the homeowner.
Other suspects who have not pleaded guilty will also appear in court.
