The Booysens Magistrate’s Court has sentenced 30-year-old Zimbabwean national Nxinxi Tshabalala to 50 years in prison for hijacking, robbery, kidnapping, and unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition.
The Booysens Magistrates’ Court convicted Tshabalala on Friday, 27 June, after he terrorised a family during a home invasion in Johannesburg.
The court heard that Tshabalala entered the home while the complainant’s wife, 16-year-old son, 12-year-old son, and four-year-old daughter were inside.
He demanded money while pointing a firearm at the youngest child.
Tracking Technology Leads Police to Suspect
After Tshabalala fled with four stolen cellphones, the complainant used a nearby shop’s services to trace one of the phones.
Police assisted in locating the suspect at an address where they recovered the stolen devices and subsequently arrested him.
Court Delivers Sentence
During sentencing, regional court prosecutor Licel Hlungwane called for a strong punishment to deter similar violent crimes, while the defence pleaded for leniency, citing Tshabalala’s circumstances.
However, the court rejected the plea and handed down a cumulative sentence of 50 years. 20 years for robbery, 10 years for kidnapping. 15 years for possession of a firearm, and five years for possession of ammunition.
NPA Applauds Justice Served
National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) spokesperson Phindi Mjonondwane welcomed the outcome and praised the work of the investigating team and the prosecution.
She said the sentence reflected the seriousness of the crime and reaffirmed the NPA’s commitment to justice and community safety.
Do you think long prison sentences are an effective way to deter violent crimes like armed robbery and kidnapping?
Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1.
Subscribe to The South African website’s newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X, and Bluesky for the latest news.
