In a major blow to organised crime in the Eastern Cape, the High Court has sentenced two members of the notorious Mechanics Gang to multiple life terms for a 2021 shooting spree that claimed three lives.
The Acting District Commissioner of Nelson Mandela Bay, Brigadier Loyiso Ngalo, lauded the sentencing of Neavan du Preez and Jody Cloete, calling the verdict a significant breakthrough in the province's ongoing battle against violent gang activity.
The tragic events of April 2021
The convictions trace back to a tragic afternoon on April 2,2021. At approximately 17:00, victims Jonathan Bruintjies and Devidene van Zyl were walking toward the Intercape bus depot in Perridgevale to board a bus. As they moved from a nearby retail store toward the depot, they were targeted in a ruthless drive-by shooting.
Both Bruintjies and Van Zyl were fatally wounded. The violence also claimed the life of an innocent bystander, Mr Nyathi, a Zimbabwean national who was tragically struck by gunfire and killed during the attack.
Rapid response and arrest
SAPS units responded swiftly after receiving information regarding the suspects' vehicle. A high-speed pursuit ensued, leading to the arrest of Du Preez and Cloete in Schauderville.
At the time of their capture, they were found in possession of two firearms and a hijacked vehicle. Subsequent investigations led by Warrant Officer Xolani Sokanyile successfully linked both accused to the murder scene.
Comprehensive sentencing and judicial outcome
While the accused were acquitted on charges related to the Prevention of Organised Crime Act (POCA), they faced the full weight of the law for their violent actions. The court found both men guilty on three counts of murder, resulting in three life sentences for each individual.
Beyond the life terms, they received fifteen years for each of the three counts of attempted murder. Additional sentences included ten years for the unlawful possession of a firearm, five years for the theft of a motor vehicle, and five years for the unlawful possession of ammunition.
A strong message to organised crime
In total, the sentencing results in six life imprisonment terms for the two men. Brigadier Ngalo emphasised that this successful prosecution serves as a testament to the dedication of the investigating team and sends a clear message that violent crime will not be tolerated in the Eastern Cape.