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Two men have been sentenced for their involvement in the tragic murder of Ben Tuzee, the 51-year-old co-owner of Dixies Restaurant & Bar in Glencairn.

The incident, which occurred during a botched hijacking in Browns Farm, Philippi, on 6 September 2022, left the community in shock. Tuzee was fatally stabbed while assisting his niece, 33-year-old Kaele Lombard, with the delivery of a television sold via Facebook Marketplace, Cape {town} Etc reports.

As Tuzee and Lombard (pictured together above) reached the meeting point, a young boy in a school uniform approached Lombard, casually mentioning that his father was on the way. Moments later, the situation took a deadly turn as Zolile Nkombisa and Ndiphelele Mtunaye launched a brutal assault.

Armed with bricks and knives, they attacked the pair. Lombard was hit multiple times in the back, while Tuzee suffered vicious stab wounds, leaving both victims overwhelmed by the sudden violence.

Although many folks in the community quickly rushed over to help, sending Tuzee to a nearby clinic, he tragically died from his injuries within an hour.

One week later police arrested three suspects. Two accepted plea deals, leading to their sentencing in Wynberg Regional Court.

Nkombisa, who was 23 at the time of arrest, received a 15-year sentence for aggravated robbery, while Mtunaye, arrested at 18, was sentenced to 25 years for murder and 15 years for aggravated robbery, with the sentences running concurrently.

Advocate Hansie Linde, representing the Lombard family, revealed how a third suspect, a minor whose identity remains protected, had struck a deal with the state. In exchange for leniency, the young accomplice agreed to testify, adding a critical layer to the prosecution’s case.

In an emotional account, Lombard recounted the traumatic events of that day, noting her familiarity with the area from past trips to buy and sell produce. She had ensured the location was safe before arriving, but the sudden attack left her feeling vulnerable.

Despite her injuries, Lombard played a crucial role in identifying the attackers to aid the prosecution. The sentencing marks a step toward justice for the heartbreaking loss, although Yolande Du Preez remarks that besides some closure, “nothing can replace her beloved uncle, Ben.”

[source:capetownetc]