Security was tight at Broadhurst Magistrates Court when five suspected armed robbers who were arrested last Friday appeared for mention yesterday.The five, Sikhumbozo Mpofu, Lytton Dlamini, Milton Shoko, Denis Moyo and Maziba are alleged to have robbed Engine Filling Station and Caltex Filling Station in Mogoditshane.Before the vehicles that were transporting the five suspects arrived at the magistrates court, a detachment of armed paramilitary police arrived and surrounded the court premises.
A few minutes later, vehicles escorted by plainclothes officers arrived with the suspects at the court. Even so, considerable levity characterised the behaviour of the suspects, prompting Magistrate Taboka Slave to ask the suspects to stop making noise.The five accused persons are facing three counts, two of armed robbery and one of unlawful possession of firearms.The five are alleged to have robbed Engine Filling Station in Mogoditshane of a laptop and airtime vouchers valued at P3,370. In the second count, the five are alleged to have robbed a Caltex Filling Station in Mogoditshane of P7,042.25 and a Samsung cellphone on July 25. In count three, Mpofu and Dlamini face charges of possession of a black and silver revolver and a 9mm pistol without licences.
