Police have appealed to the community for assistance in tracing the suspects. 

Thee allegedly entered a residence, demanded cell phones, and kidnapped the homeowner (37) on Saturday, 31 May. The victim was later dropped off at Villiers after he was assaulted, said Free State police spokesperson Josephine Rani.

Anyone with information is urged to contact Det. Sgt. Sipho Nale on 062 487 0689 or Crime Stop on 08600 10111.

Meanwhile, Moeketsi Mphatlalatsa (33) was sentenced to 20 years for his role in a violent house robbery in February 2020. He was convicted on Tuesday, 27 May.

A victim was assaulted and manhandled by suspects demanding money and valuables. Despite being tied up, she managed to plead for her life, and the perpetrators fled, said Rani.

A further investigation was done when police found the victim’s jacket at one of the suspects’ houses. The victim confirmed it was hers. This new evidence led to the suspects being arrested again and the case going back to court.

Sentenced to 15 years imprisonment

While not all suspects were charged, Mphatlalatsa was sentenced to 15 years imprisonment, five years for kidnapping, ten years for assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm.

The court ruled the sentences would run concurrently, resulting in an effective 20-year prison term for Mphatlalatsa.

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