The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) welcomes the sentence of 30 years’ direct imprisonment imposed by the Pretoria Magistrates’ Court on Kamar Davids (39) of Eersterust.
David was convicted on two counts of robbery with aggravating circumstances.
The court also declared him unfit to possess a firearm.
On the evening of 14 November 2023, Davids and his accomplice requested an e-hailing service in Eersterust.
When the driver arrived, the vehicle was stationary when the two men entered it, pointed a firearm at the driver, assaulted him, and robbed him of his belongings before fleeing the scene.
Two days later, David and his accomplice again requested an e-hailing service in Eersterust.
Upon the driver’s arrival, the pair entered the vehicle and violently attacked him, striking him with a firearm and holding a knife to his throat while robbing him of his belongings.
During the robbery, police officers conducting patrols in the area approached the vehicle.
The two suspects fled on foot, but police apprehended and arrested Davids.
He has remained in custody since his arrest after the NPA successfully opposed his bail application.
During the trial, Davids pleaded not guilty and denied committing the offences.
However, State Prosecutor Marsche Louw presented compelling evidence, including the testimony of both victims, which proved his guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
In mitigation of sentence, Davids, through his legal representative, requested the court not to impose the prescribed minimum sentences, citing his age and the fact that he has five dependent children.
In response, Louw argued that Davids had shown no remorse for his actions and had violated the victims’ constitutional rights to safety and security.
Louw further submitted that violent crimes targeting e-hailing drivers have become increasingly prevalent, preventing many from conducting their work safely and freely.
She emphasised that the victims were fortunate to have escaped with only minor injuries and argued that society looks to the courts to send a clear message that such conduct will not be tolerated.
She further contended that an appropriate sentence would serve as a deterrent to both Davids and would-be offenders.
In sentencing, the Magistrate agreed with the State’s submissions, finding that Davids had demonstrated no remorse for his crimes.
The court noted the alarming increase in robberies targeting e-hailing drivers and observed that the victims were lawfully earning a living when they were violently attacked and robbed.
The Magistrate further remarked that Davids and his accomplice had not merely threatened the victims but had physically assaulted them, thereby infringing upon their rights to safety and security.
The court consequently found that no substantial and compelling circumstances existed to justify a deviation from the prescribed minimum sentences.
The NPA remains committed to working closely with law enforcement agencies to ensure that perpetrators of violent crime are brought before the courts and held accountable for their actions.
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