Justice served: Ayesha Kelly’s killers sentenced to 30 years in prison

After five years of heartbreak and courtroom battles, the family of 10-year-old Ayesha Kelly can finally close a painful chapter in their lives. The two men responsible for her tragic death have been sentenced to 30 years of direct imprisonment at the Western Cape High Court.

A Normal Day Turned into Tragedy

On December 8, 2019, Ayesha and three of her friends were sent to a tuck shop near her home in Tafelsig, Mitchells Plain, to buy bread.

What should have been a routine outing turned into a horrific nightmare when gang members from the Hard Living gang opened fire in the area.

Ayesha was struck by a stray bullet and died instantly.

The senseless killing sent shockwaves through the community, reigniting concerns over gang violence and the safety of children in Mitchells Plain.

Police Response and Arrests

Following the deadly shooting, the Anti-Gang Unit and Crime Prevention Unit arrived at the scene and immediately secured the area.

Through witness statements and forensic evidence, Detective Sergeant Bradley Schuurman linked three men to the shooting:

• Cameron Julies
• Chadwin Williams
• Nathaniel Arendse

A 72-hour activation plan was launched, leading to the swift arrests of all suspects that same evening.

During Williams’ arrest, police discovered a firearm in his possession, further strengthening the case against them.

The Court Battle

The three accused were denied bail at the magistrate’s court, and the case was swiftly escalated to the Western Cape High Court.

However, Arendse passed away while in custody, leaving Julies and Williams to stand trial.

Despite overwhelming evidence, both men pleaded not guilty, forcing Ayesha’s family to endure a long and painful trial.

On Wednesday, September 18, 2024, the long-awaited guilty verdict was delivered.

Sentencing and Family Reactions

The court postponed the case for sentencing, and on Thursday, February 27, 2025, justice was finally served.

Both Williams and Julies were sentenced to 30 years in prison.

Outside the courthouse, Ayesha’s family shared their emotions.

Mixed Feelings About the Sentence

While relieved that the killers will no longer roam free, some family members felt the punishment was not severe enough.

Ayesha’s aunt, Fatima Kelly, expressed gratitude for the conviction but admitted that 30 years did not feel like enough.

Her grandmother, Fayrooz Kelly, echoed similar sentiments:

“If you take a life, you must get life. That’s what the judge said. I don’t feel 30 years is enough, but at least we know it’s over. We don’t have to see their faces again.”

Despite her sorrow, Fayrooz took a moment to thank the detective who had supported them throughout the case:

“Thank you for your hard work and dedication over the past five years. Thank you for always being there for us. You made it easier just by standing by our side.”

Community Leaders Weigh In

Linda Jones, a Mitchells Plain Community Policing Forum member, also praised the work of law enforcement.

“First, we give glory to God so that finally the family can move forward. We express our gratitude to all investigators and the NPA for a successful conviction.”

However, Jones raised concerns about sentencing laws in South Africa.

“Despite the efforts of police and prosecutors, our courts face major challenges when handing down sentences. Life should mean life—forever. It can’t be 25 or 30 years. That’s not real justice.”

She also noted a disturbing trend in gang-related crimes:

“The perpetrators we see are getting younger each time. A 25-year sentence isn’t enough when they’ll be out before they even turn 50.”

A Community Still Healing

For the Mitchells Plain community, Ayesha’s case is one of many tragedies linked to gang violence.

While the sentencing offers closure, residents continue to demand harsher laws and better protection for their children.

Ayesha Kelly’s death was senseless, but her family hopes her case will serve as a wake-up call to authorities and lawmakers.

For now, her loved ones take comfort in knowing that justice, however imperfect, has been served.