Premier Alan Winde recently met the team of detectives who made history in July for securing the conviction of drug kingpin Fadwaan Murphy, the first time a drug-dealing conviction was secured under the Prevention of Organised Crime Act (POCA).

Winde lauded their hard work, which made this landmark ruling possible.

“The single-minded determination of these detectives to see this case reach a successful conclusion is highly commendable. This team of detectives displayed true professionalism.”

The case dates back to 2015, when Murphy and his wife Shafieka were arrested in September of that year. Cops caught Shafieka and two others red-handed packing tik at a property in Grassy Park.

During the trial, the court heard how the duo concealed a lucrative drug packaging business under the guise of operating and managing their company Ulterior Trading Solutions.

On 12 July, he was convicted of 197 counts. Their criminal enterprise flooded the Cape Flats with tik, bringing destruction to the life of countless families.

In handing down her verdict, Acting Judge Diane Davis said the State’s evidence “fit like a jigsaw puzzle” and was sufficient enough to prove their guilt.

Premier Winde says this conviction has dealt a significant blow to the drug trade in the Western Cape.

“Every criminal which is put behind bars is another step closer to making the Western Cape and its communities safer. However, much more still needs to be done to rid our communities of this scourge. We will provide any support the SAPS needs to bring those who are destroying our communities to book and to take them off our streets.”

The Premier also commended the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) for their role in ensuring that the dedicated work of the SAPS was matched by a successful conviction.

The MEC of Police Oversight and Community Safety also expressed his gratitude to the investigating team.

“I commend Captain Nadine Britz and her unit. Their success is a clear demonstration of what can be achieved when the SAPS works in this manner. I am a firm believer that in all gang-related cases, the POCA should be applied and utilised, as these criminal entities must be brought to their knees. I trust the court will send a clear message and hand down the most severe possible sentence. Drugs and gangs are destroying our communities, and they should know that the full weight of the law will stand against them and bring justice to those affected.”

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