Update

PLETTENBERG BAY NEWS - The man who murdered Plettenberg Bay teenager Sandisiwe Mona (17) in 2019 was sentenced to life behind bars in the Knysna Circuit High Court last week - more than two years after the Kwanokuthula teen's death.

According to police, Sandisiwe was left in the care of her murderer, Motseki Talasi (56) in Cuba Street, Kwanokuthula on 13 April 2019 when her grandmother went to a funeral. 

When her grandmother returned, she realised that Sandisiwe had gone missing and immediately alerted authorities.

This sparked a large-scale search of surrounding areas, but did not lead to any trace of the victim.

Southern Cape police spokesperson Sergeant Christopher Spies said police however followed up information soon thereafter, resulting in a further search in densely vegetated areas between Ladywood and Kwanokuthula. This search led to the discovery of human remains about 1,2km from the Sandisiwe residence. The remains were later identified as that of the missing teenager.

Spies said the discovery and further forensic evidence obtained during the investigation led to the arrest of Talasi in September that year. Talasi was Sandisiwe's grandmother's husband.

The incident sparked an outcry from the local community and led to several peaceful protests and a petition against bail for Talasi. More than 7 200 signatures were garnered and Talasi subsequently abandoned bail.

He remained in custody until his conviction on Thursday 25 November. A life sentence was handed down the following day.

Western Cape police commissioner Thembisile Patekile commended those who had been instrumental in securing "this hefty sentence".

"The protection of the most vulnerable in society, especially women and children, is one of the key priorities for the police," Patekile said. "The conclusion of this matter on the second day of the 16 Days of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children campaign is proof of this commitment. Those in positions of trust should take note that they would face the full might of the law, once arrested."

He also thanked the community for their involvement in the initial search for Sandisiwe as well as the continued support during the police probe.

Several protests were held following the murder of Plettenberg Bay teenager Sandisiwe Mona (17) in 2019. Photo: Yolande Stander