KEY POINTS
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Three men were convicted for the 2020 murder of a taxi association member.
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Police chased and arrested the suspects after a shootout.
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The case was led by Lieutenant Colonel Julian Tarentaal.
Three men have been sentenced for their involvement in the brutal daylight murder of a taxi association member in Bellville.
The incident, linked to tensions over taxi routes, occurred in 2020, resulting in one man receiving a life sentence, while the other two received 18-year prison sentences each.
Murder and attempted escape
Siyabonga Dywili, Siphenathi Nglela, and Lihle Plam were sentenced on Tuesday in the Bellville Regional Court.
On June 8, 2020, the three men approached a 62-year-old man while he sat in his Toyota Hilux on Charl Malan Street. Armed with guns, they shot him before fleeing in a nearby Toyota Avanza.
The police pursuit and arrests
After the shooting, police responded swiftly. Officers spotted the getaway vehicle speeding along Voortrekker Road and gave chase.
During the pursuit, the suspects opened fire on the officers, who returned fire. Three suspects were eventually apprehended and charged with murder, attempted murder, robbery with aggravated circumstances, and possession of unlicensed firearms.
Praise for the detective’s role
According to IOL, the investigation was led by Lieutenant Colonel Julian Tarentaal, who was praised for his conduct during the trial.
“Lieutenant Colonel Julian Tarentaal, simply stood his ground as a seasoned detective, calmly answering the questions posed to him. He was commended as a credible witness,” said Swartbooi.
Acting Western Cape Provincial Commissioner, Major General Albert Maqhashalala, praised Tarentaal’s efforts in solving the case and bringing the criminals to justice.
