Four individuals were each sentenced to 20 years’ imprisonment on 21 April 2026 by the Pretoria Regional Court following their conviction on charges related to armed robbery and associated offences.
The accused—Russell Tanaka Sibanda (32), Terrance Dube (34), Brandon Maorera (24), and Alicia Sibanda (32)—were apprehended on 09 January 2024 after a police pursuit in Pretoria.
According to court records and police documentation, the incident began at approximately 08:40 when Sergeant Mabena and Constable Mabona of SAPS Pretoria Moot responded to a request for assistance from Proshield Security Services. A lookout had been circulated for a green Suzuki Swift occupied by one female and three male suspects allegedly involved in an armed robbery in the Sinoville policing precinct.
The vehicle was located near the intersection of 13th Avenue and Jacobs Street in Gezina, Pretoria, where suspects were allegedly attempting to commit another robbery. A pursuit ensued under hazardous weather conditions, with heavy rainfall making road surfaces extremely wet.
At the corner of Sisulu and Boom Street in Pretoria Central, the driver of the suspect vehicle lost control, resulting in a collision. All four occupants were apprehended at the scene. Police recovered a replica firearm and suspected stolen property from the vehicle during the arrest.
Subsequent investigations confirmed that all four suspects were Zimbabwean nationals present in South Africa illegally. They were charged with:
– Armed robbery
– Possession of a firearm
– Reckless and negligent driving
– Contravention of Section 49(1)(a) of the Immigration Act 13 of 2002
Warrant Officer Ngobeni of the Pretoria Moot Detective Branch was appointed as the investigating officer. The accused appeared before the Pretoria Regional Court, where bail applications were opposed and denied. The court ordered the suspects to remain in custody pending trial.
On 21 April 2026, the matter was finalised. All four accused were sentenced to 20 years’ imprisonment on the charges brought before the court.
The Tshwane District Commissioner, Major General Samuel Thine, acknowledged the investigative work conducted by members of SAPS Pretoria Moot in relation to the case.