In a significant legal achievement, Fadwaan ‘Vet’ Murphy and Shariefa, known drug dealers, have become the first to be convicted under the Prevention of Organised Crime Act (Poca) in South Africa. This historic conviction is the outcome of a meticulous five-year investigation led by Captain Nadine Britz from the South African Police Service (SAPS) Crime Intelligence, and her team of multi-disciplinary units.
Background
The couple had been operating a lucrative drug packaging business, spanning across multiple districts, including Mitchells Plain, Wynberg, Cape Town, Strand, Worcester, and Caledon. However, their illegal enterprise came to an end on 18 September 2015, when Shariefa and two others were caught red-handed while packaging drugs at a property in Grassy Park.
Building the case
The State’s case was built using cellphone records to establish the defendants’ involvement in the drug enterprise and money laundering. Their activities constituted a pattern of racketeering activity under Poca. The court heard how houses and cars were purchased with proceeds from drug sales. Acting Judge Diane Davis found that the State’s evidence “fit like a jigsaw puzzle,” establishing the defendants’ guilt unequivocally.
Unexpected twists and turns
During the trial, there were unexpected twists and turns, with witnesses defending Murphy and accusing Shariefa. Six separate trials within trials were included, making the case more complex. Nonetheless, the guilty verdict for the Poca charges was ultimately reached.
Historic conviction
After the hearing, Britz expressed her gratitude and pride in her colleagues for their dedication and hard work. This historic conviction not only marks a significant victory for South African law enforcement but also serves as a warning to organized crime that justice will ultimately prevail. As the first drug enterprise conviction under Poca in the country, it sets a precedent for future cases and demonstrates the tireless efforts of law enforcement in the fight against organized crime.
Other co-accused individuals
The trial also involved other co-accused individuals. Dominic Davidson was cleared of all charges due to insufficient evidence. Leon Paulsen, who was allegedly Murphy’s henchman, had already been cleared of all charges in 2020. Unfortunately, Glenda Bird, another co-accused, passed away from cancer in 2019.
Sentencing
Acting Judge Davis revoked Murphy and Shariefa’s bail, and they now await their sentencing on 18 July. The case serves as a prime example to the public that justice and righteousness can indeed prevail.
