The Durban High Court sentenced Philakahle Dladla to life in prison last week for murdering KwaDukuza traffic officer Desmond Arumugam during a taxi robbery in 2024.

Dladla (28), who was arrested six days after the murder and convicted in November last year, also received an additional 40 years for robbery and firearm-related offences committed during the incident, with sentences to run concurrently.

According to National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) regional spokesperson Natasha Ramkisson-Kara, Dladla boarded a fully loaded taxi at the KwaDukuza rank on November 4, 2024, intending to rob passengers. He sat in the front seat and, during the journey, instructed the driver, Bheki Xulu, to take the Groutville offramp.

He then drew a firearm, taking about R1 000 from Xulu and robbing passenger Nontokozo Shangase of her cellphone and cash.

As the taxi stood stationary, Desmond Arumugam, a father of three and local traffic officer, approached the vehicle to investigate. Dladla opened fire, shooting Arumugam in the head and neck, fatally wounding him. Xulu fled the scene and alerted nearby authorities.

Dladla drove off with passengers still inside before abandoning the vehicle in Thembeni and fleeing on foot. He was arrested a week later and a firearm was recovered at his home.

During the trial, Prosecutor Rakesh Singh led testimony from the driver, passengers and police officers and presented cellphone records placing Dladla at the scene.

Victim and family impact statements were submitted, including one from Arumugam’s daughter, who described him as the “foundation of their family” and said his death left them traumatised.

Arumugam is survived by three children aged 25, 22 and 15.

Desmond’s eldest brother Bazil Arumugam said the family is relieved that justice has been served.

“Unfortunately, this won’t bring my brother back. It has been just over a year since this ordeal, and we are still shattered by his death. The judge was very vocal and stern, telling the accused that the law is clear: killing a police officer carries a life sentence. The accused showed no remorse, denying the crime despite being found guilty,” said Bazil.

He further thanked KwaDukuza law enforcement officers for attending the trial in large numbers and for supporting the family throughout the process.

“Family wants to also place on record the excellent work done by the investigating officer, captain Ntshangase and his team from Durban Organized Crime. The maximum sentence on every count on the accused bears testimony to his hard work and dedication,” he said.

He noted disappointment that the sentences would run concurrently.

KwaDukuza mayor Siduduzo Gumede welcomed the sentence, saying it delivers justice for Arumugam, his family and all law-enforcement officers who risk their lives to protect communities.

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