Life imprisonment for murder of KwaDukuza traffic officer
The Durban High Court sentenced a man to life imprisonment for the killing of KwaDukuza traffic officer Senior Superintendent Arumugam Marimuthoo
Image: IOL / Ron AI
The Durban High Court on Thursday sentenced Philakahle Dladla, 27, to life imprisonment for the murder of KwaDukuza traffic officer, Senior Superintendent Arumugam Marimuthoo.
Marimuthoo, 50, was killed on November 4, 2024 in Groutville, in northern KwaZulu-Natal.
On that fateful morning, Marimuthoo was carrying out his duties when he spotted a mini-bus taxi blocking the road in Groutville. Upon approaching the driver, Marimuthoo learned they were in the midst of a robbery.
Whilst Marimuthoo was reversing his vehicle the suspect fired several shots hitting Marimuthoo and ultimately resulting in his death on the scene.
The suspect, who was later identified as Dladla drove the taxi towards Thembeni township with the passengers inside. He robbed the terrified passengers of their belongings before making his escape on foot.
A case of murder and armed robbery was reported at KwaDukuza police station, leading to an intensive investigation by the Hawks members from Durban Serious Organised Crime.
Within a week, investigators managed to pinpoint Dladla’s whereabouts in Melmoth, where a swift apprehension occurred.
The arrest culminated in Dladla leading police to KwaMashu, where the firearm used in the assassinatory act was recovered, cementing the case against him.
He was charged accordingly and appeared in court. His bail application was successfully opposed and he was remanded in custody until he was found guilty in November last year.
Dladla was sentenced on Thursday to life imprisonment for murder, 15 years imprisonment for armed robbery of the passengers, another 15 years for armed robbery of the driver, five year imprisonment for possession of unlicensed firearm and five years for possession of ammunition. His sentence will run concurrently.