5
No. 5. His defence was an alibi, but stolen money was found where he was arrested and he made a statement to
the Police on arrest.
No. 6. He pleaded guilty to the robbery at the Bank and admitted being near Pei Ho Street whilst saying that he ran off in another direction.
No. 7.
His defence was an alibi a slightly different one at the trial from an alibi which he put forward when first arrested. A pattern from which the hood found in the first getaway car could have been made was found at his house as was a sewing machine and thread like that used to sew the hood. The key to the drawer containing guns and money was also found at his house.
17.
SUMMARY.
There was ample evidence to support the convictions.
PRINCIPAL FACTORS.
18. (a) The gang which these men comprised was a ruthless one.
There is abundant evidence of their determination to make good their escape after the robbery, which was itself carried out in a violent manner the taking of the hostages, the manner in which cars were seized by some of them, and the use of revolvers on 3 occasions.
19.
(b)
4 of them were armed with revolvers and 2 with knives at the time of the robbery. 2 further guns were seized during the robbery.
(c) Only Nos. 1 and 3 were involved in the fatal shooting.
The others were not present and some were nowhere near.
RECOMMENDATION.
If the Governor decides to commute the death sentences passed on these men, I recommend that a sentence of imprisonment for life be substituted in each case. I can see nothing which calls for any differentiation between them. This is the view also of the trial judge.
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