GQEBERHA – Two Mechanics Gang members will spend the rest of their lives behind bars after being convicted of murder in a 2021 drive-by shooting that claimed three lives.
The Gqeberha High Court handed down the life sentences today, 21 April.
The accused, Neavan du Preez and Jody Cloete, were found guilty on multiple serious charges following a thorough investigation led by Warrant Officer Xolani Sokanyile.
According to police spokesperson, Captain Sandra Janse van Rensburg, the court found both accused guilty on three counts of murder, each receiving life imprisonment per count, amounting to three life sentences each.
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“In addition, they were convicted on three counts of attempted murder and sentenced to 15 years’ imprisonment for each count. Further convictions include theft of a motor vehicle (5 years), unlawful possession of a firearm (10 years), and unlawful possession of ammunition (5 years),” she added.
She further added: “Collectively, the sentencing results in a total of six life imprisonment terms for the two accused. They were acquitted on charges related to the Prevention of Organised Crime Act (POCA).”
Commenting on the incident that claimed three lives, she said the convictions stem from an incident on 2 April 2021 at approximately 17:00, when victims Jonathan Bruintjies and Devidene Van Zyl were en route to board an Intercape bus at Perridgevale.
“While walking from a nearby retail store to the bus depot, they were targeted and fatally shot in a drive-by shooting.
“During the attack, an innocent bystander, Mr Nyathi, a Zimbabwean national, was also struck by gunfire and tragically lost his life,” she revealed.
She further revealed police responded swiftly after receiving information about the suspects’ vehicle and a high-speed pursuit ensued, leading to the arrest of the suspects in Schauderville.
“At the time of their arrest, they were found in possession of two firearms and a hijacked vehicle. Subsequent investigations positively linked the accused to the murder scene,” she said.
The Acting District Commissioner of Nelson Mandela Bay, Brigadier Loyiso Ngalo commended the investigating officer and all role players involved in securing the conviction, including the prosecution team, for their dedication and professionalism.
“This sentence sends a clear and unequivocal message that those who engage in violent criminal acts, particularly gang-related killings, will face the full might of the law. The South African Police Service remains resolute in its commitment to dismantling gangs and ensuring that communities are safe,” said Ngalo.
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