Thozamile Taki
| Thozamile Taki | |
|---|---|
| Born |
1971 Majola, Port St Johns, South Africa |
| Other names | Sugarcane Serial Killer |
| Criminal penalty | 13 life sentences (208 years for armed robbery) |
| Conviction(s) | murder, armed robbery |
| Killings | |
| Victims | 13 |
| Country | South Africa |
Date apprehended | 2007 |
Thozamile Taki (born 1971) also known as the Sugarcane Killer is a South African serial killer who killed 13 women aged 18–25, dumping their bodies in agricultural plantations.[1] On 19 January 2011, Taki was sentenced to 13 life sentences for the murders and an additional 208 years, 16 years for each of his victims of armed robbery.[2]
Taki murdered 10 victims in the sugarcane plantations around the town of Umzinto, as well as a further three victims in the tea plantations near Port St Johns, KwaZulu Natal. Body parts of some of his victims are alleged to have been provided to a local traditional healer or sangoma.[3]
Taki was remanded at Westville Prison during his trial. On 21 February 2010, Taki, along with eight other prisoners attempted to escape from the prison. Taki fell from the roof of his fourth floor cell, seriously injuring himself while his accomplices successfully escaped. His trial was adjourned pending his recovery.[4]
On March 2, 2010, Taki, now using a wheelchair, entered court requesting that his girlfriend be given bail. Judge King Ndlovu postponed the trial until April 30, 2010, where the remaining eight of the state's 103 witness were to testify. On December 23, 2010, Taki was convicted on all charges.[5]
See also
References
- ↑ News 24 : Sugarcane killer : Release her.
- ↑ "Sugarcane killer gets 533 years in jail". News24.com. 11 January 2011. Retrieved 11 January 2011.
- ↑ "Body used for muti, court told". News24.com. 18 February 2010.
- ↑ "Sugarcane Suspect tries to flee". News24.com. 21 February 2010.
- ↑ "Sugarcane Suspect in hospital". News24.com. 22 February 2010.