Ten people accused of kidnapping and murdering 20-year-old Vinchernico “Nico” Theron in Mitchells Plain five years ago have been found guilty, despite his body still not being recovered.
According to a report by Cape Argus, the conviction comes as Theron’s family continues to search for answers and hopes to eventually recover his remains to lay him to rest.
The convicted are Wayne Jacobs, Jaden Abrahams, Keenan Coetzee, Thomas van der Merwe, Jonathan Beukes, Lee Malan, Miche Jacobs, Zakier Abrahams, Veronica de Jongh and Faziel Manuel. They were found guilty of murder, kidnapping and assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm.
They have all denied involvement in Theron’s disappearance and death. In addition, the group was also convicted of kidnapping a second victim, Leon Paulse.
Sentencing proceedings are scheduled for August 17, 2026.
National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) spokesperson Eric Ntabazalila confirmed the outcome.
“I can confirm that the accused were convicted and their case has been postponed until August 17, 2026, for sentencing proceedings. Accused 5 and 10 have been convicted on count 5 – defeating the ends of justice,” he said.
Theron’s mother, Charmaine Curtis, said the verdict brought some relief but that the absence of her son’s remains continued to weigh heavily on the family.
“The judgment brought relief and gratitude, knowing that those responsible for my son’s disappearance and death have been found guilty,” she told the Cape Argus.
“Yet my heart remains heavy. The reality truly struck when the Honourable Judge O’Brien declared that Vinchernico was deceased.
“After five long years, justice has spoken, but my son’s remains are still missing.
“My greatest prayer is that one day he will be brought home so that we can finally lay him to rest with the dignity and love he deserves.
“Thank you to everyone who has prayed, supported, and stood by us throughout this journey.”
Closing arguments in the trial were heard last week.
The State argued that the absence of Theron’s body did not prevent a conviction for murder. It also contended that accused two and three were the last people seen with him while he was alive.
At the time of his disappearance, Theron’s family said they were told he had allegedly been beaten and had hot water poured over him.
IOL News
Get your news on the go. Download the latest IOL App for Android and IOS now.
