South Africa’s justice system has made history with the conviction of Fadwaan “Vet” Murphy and his ex-wife Shariefa under the Prevention of Organised Crime Act (Poca). It is the first time drug dealers have been convicted under this legislation after a five-year trial. The case’s success is due to the incredible police work by Captain Nadine Britz from SAPS Crime Intelligence and her team of dedicated multi-disciplinary units.
The Charges and Evidence Presented
Murphy and his ex-wife faced 229 charges in the Western Cape High Court under Poca and the Drugs and Drug Trafficking Act. The court was presented with evidence of the couple’s wilful and unlawful concealment of a profitable drug packaging business. Their operation came to an abrupt halt on 18 September 2015, when police apprehended Shafieka and two accomplices in the act of packing drugs at a property in Grassy Park.
The prosecution aimed to prove the enterprise engaged in illegal activities, including planned, ongoing, and repeated drug dealing and money laundering in various districts. These activities were deemed a pattern of racketeering activity under Poca. Investigators relied on cellphone records to track the movements of Shafieka, Murphy, or both in their journeys between the packaging company and Worcester.
The Verdict and Reaction
Acting Judge Diane Davis praised the State’s evidence as “fitting like a jigsaw puzzle,” sufficient to establish the defendants’ guilt. The prosecution had a strong case, demonstrating that houses and cars were purchased using drug sales profits. Acting Judge Davis highlighted the unexpected twists and turns in the case, including witnesses defending Murphy and his unfair accusations against Shafieka.
Captain Nadine Britz, overcome with emotion, wept quietly as Acting Judge Davis announced the guilty verdict for the Poca charges. Britz later explained her tears were of happiness, knowing that the team’s hard work finally paid off. Murphy and Shariefa were placed behind bars until their sentencing on 18 July.
The Acquittal and Acquaintances
However, Murphy’s co-accused, Dominic Davidson, walked free as the court found insufficient evidence to link him to the drug packaging property in Grassy Park. Leon Paulsen, Murphy’s alleged henchman, was acquitted of all charges in 2020, and another co-accused, Glenda Bird, passed away from cancer in 2019.
The Message Sent
This landmark case sends a powerful message and showcases the dedication of law enforcement in their pursuit of justice against organized crime in South Africa. Britz expressed her gratitude to her team, emphasizing the joint effort behind the historic achievement. “We made history as a joint effort. I am just so very proud,” she added.
