Bellville, Western Cape — Justice has been delivered in the 2020 broad daylight execution of a taxi association member in Bellville, with three men sentenced for their involvement in the murder that rocked the local taxi industry.
On Tuesday, the Bellville Regional Court handed down sentences to Siyabonga Dywili, Siphenathi Nglela, and Lihle Plam for the killing of a 62-year-old taxi official, an act believed to be fuelled by territorial tensions between rival taxi groups over routes between Bellville and Paarl.
Siyabonga Dywili received a life sentence, while Nglela and Plam were each sentenced to 18 years in prison.
According to police spokesperson Warrant Officer Joseph Swartbooi, on June 8, 2020, two armed suspects approached the victim while he sat inside his Toyota Hilux parked on Charl Malan Street. They shot him in cold blood before fleeing in a Toyota Avanza.
“Responding officers spotted the getaway vehicle speeding along Voortrekker Road. The suspects opened fire on the pursuing police, who returned fire,” said Swartbooi.
Three suspects were ultimately arrested and charged with murder, attempted murder, robbery with aggravating circumstances, and possession of unlicensed firearms and ammunition.
The court praised Lieutenant Colonel Julian Tarentaal, the lead investigator, for his exceptional handling of the case and testimony under pressure.
“He stood his ground as a seasoned detective, calmly answering every question. He was commended as a credible witness,” said Swartbooi.
Acting Western Cape Provincial Commissioner, Major General Albert Maqhashalala, lauded the efforts of Tarentaal and the investigation team, stating:
“He did everything within his power to ensure justice was served. His work reflects the professionalism we need in combating violent organized crime.”
