File
The Hawks have welcomed the 15-year jail sentences imposed on two men caught red-handed trying to smuggle explosives from Zimbabwe into South Africa.
Patson Banda (25) and Life Mbazi (33) were sentenced in the Musina Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday.
Spokesperson, Captain Matimba Maluleke, said the matter dates back to March last year when the Hawks’ Serious Organised Crime Investigation Unit members received a tip-off.
Hawks members, assisted by Beitbridge police, held a stakeout the Beitbridge Port of Entry when they spotted two people pushing a trolley full of parcels.
Maluleke said a search of the trolley revealed explosives worth R470 000 wrapped in plastic.
He said Banda and Mbazi were never granted bail and were each sentenced to 15 years direct imprisonment without the option of a fine.
