Appeal bid in Wimpy heist fails

THE Port Elizabeth High Court yesterday dismissed applications for leave to appeal against the convictions of two men behind the brazen robbery at the Metlife Plaza Wimpy in August 2009.

The applications were brought by Themba Mohale, 33, of New Brighton, and Thabile Matiwane, 25, of Zwide, who were convicted in January on four counts of robbery with aggravating circumstances and one of murder.

The third man who was convicted, Bulelani Mabija, 25, of Kwazakhele, did not bring any applications forward yesterday.

Mohale and Mabija were also found guilty of unlawful possession of firearms and ammunition. Matiwane was acquitted on these charges.

Judge Jannie Eksteen, however, granted Mohale leave to appeal against his 24-year sentence, stating that a full bench of the Grahamstown High Court may reach another conclusion in terms of sentencing.

The robbery made headlines at the time because of the involvement of a Nelson Mandela Bay traffic officer and the dramatic car chase and shoot-out that ensued involving the robbers, police and an Atlas security guard.

The driver of the getaway car in which the three men sped from the scene – Nelson Mandela Bay traffic officer Mhlope Menye – died after sustaining bullet wounds following the car chase, which ended in Dubu Street, New Brighton.

It is not clear whether Mabija will also apply for leave to appeal against his sentence and conviction. – Lee-Anne Butler