A 70-YEAR-OLD man linked to a string of violent, organised robberies targeting clothing stores across the Free State has been sentenced to an effective 25 years’ direct imprisonment by the Virginia Regional Court.
Taole Tlatsa was convicted on multiple serious charges, including contravention of the Prevention of Organised Crime Act (POCA), money laundering, conspiracy to commit robbery with aggravating circumstances, several counts of robbery with aggravating circumstances and unlawful possession of a firearm.
The court imposed 25 years’ imprisonment on each robbery count, ordering that the sentences run concurrently.
The court heard that between 2019 and 2021, Tlatsa operated as part of a coordinated criminal group that systematically targeted clothing retail outlets across the province.
The group’s method was consistent: members posed as customers before launching armed attacks on staff.
Employees were overpowered, tied up with cable ties and forced into storerooms while the robbers demanded cash, cellphones and other valuables at gunpoint.
Customers present during the robberies were also held captive, intensifying the trauma and fear experienced during the incidents.
Evidence revealed that the group functioned as a structured criminal enterprise, with members working together in pursuit of a common criminal objective over an extended period.
Investigations connected Tlatsa directly to at least 13 robberies committed across the Free State between 2019 and 2022.
He admitted his role in the crimes and acknowledged that proceeds from the robberies were sold and used to benefit the group, amounting to money laundering.
Tlatsa appeared in court on 16 March 2026 alongside eight co-accused.
However, his case was separated after he opted to plead guilty in the face of overwhelming evidence, including testimony from more than 70 state witnesses, eyewitness identifications and video footage.
The trial of his co-accused continues.
During sentencing, state prosecutor Advocate Marlies Nel presented Tlatsa’s previous convictions as aggravating factors.
The state argued that his guilty plea was not a sign of genuine remorse, but rather a response to the strength of the case against him.
The court agreed, finding no substantial and compelling circumstances to justify deviating from prescribed minimum sentences.
The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) said the sentence sends a strong message that organised crime will be dealt with decisively.
“This outcome demonstrates that violent and organised criminal activities will be met with the full might of the law,” said NPA regional spokesperson Mojalefa Senokoatsane.