Cape Town Robbery Gang Faces Plea Deals After Eight-Year Legal Battle

A group of four men who were allegedly involved in a series of armed robberies, including an audacious ATM bombing, stand to be offered plea deals by the bellville Regional Court. These men were part of an initial six-member gang arrested eight years earlier on charges of aggravated robbery across the city.

These Cape Town robbers, identified as Vusi Mafu, Musa Mthembu, Kwanele Mayo and Stanley Masuku, allegedly targeted prominent cellphone outlets, including Vodacom, Telkom, and Cell C, during their spree in February 2015. The spree culminated with a daring ATM bombing at Old Oak Centre, Bellville. Security footage details a man manipulating the ATM before a violent explosion, followed by an armed accomplice aiding in the heist.

Mthunzi Ncube, a former member of the gang, passed away in March due to natural causes, while Xolisani Nenemba evaded authorities. Their cases will be treated independently, emphasized by Prosecutor Mervyn Menigo.

This court decision follows hardships in the case, including the 2020 assassination of the initial investigating officer, Charl Kinnear, and subsequent recusal of the former magistrate. COVID-19 related delays also plagued the proceedings, requiring significant evidence confirmation using industry analysts in place of Kinnear's testament.

Facing charges for aggravated robbery, illegal firearm and ammunition possession, plus the use of explosives, the verdict of these men will mark a significant point in Cape Town's fight against crime.