EDEN CLUSTER – The Western Cape police management commended the investigation and prosecution teams after a life sentence was meted out against Motseki Talasi (56) in the Knysna Circuit (High) Court on Friday, 26 November 2021, following his conviction for the killing of Sandisiwe Mona (17) from Kwanokuthula near Plettenberg Bay.

The victim was left in the care of this family member at Cuba Street, Kwanokuthula on 13 April 2019 when her grandmother went to a funeral. On her return she noticed that the girl was missing and alerted authorities. An extensive search commenced but without any trace of the girl.

Information about the missing girl was later followed up resulting in a further search of the bushes between Ladywood and Kwanokuthula in Plettenberg Bay which led to the discovery of human remains about 1,2 km from the residence of the girl. The human remains were later positively identified as those of the missing girl.

This discovery and further forensic evidence obtained during the cause of the investigation led to the arrest of the accused, also known as the husband of the victim’s grandmother, during September 2019.

Since his arrest he remained in custody till his conviction on 25 November 2021. The Judge handed down a sentence of life imprisonment the following day, 16 November 1021.

Judge Dolamo presided over the matter whilst the prosecution was led by Advocate Dail Andrews from the National Prosecuting Authority and the defence by Adv. Nawaal Abudraghman (Legal Aid).

Lieutenant General Thembisile Patekile, Provincial Commissioner of the Western Cape, had nothing but praise for all those who were instrumental in securing this hefty sentence. Lt Gen Patekile said: “the protection of the most vulnerable in society especially women and children is one of the key priorities for the police. The conclusion of this matter on the second day of the 16 Days of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children campaign is proof of this commitment. Those in position of trust should take note that they would face the full might of the law, once arrested”. He also thanked the community for their involvement with the initial search for Sandisiwe as well as the continued support during the police probe.

Source: South African Police Service