Date: 13/03/2003
Source: Western Cape Provincial Government
Title: Van Schalkwyk: Media briefing on Laingsburg investigation


EXTRACT FROM REMARKS BY THE WESTERN CAPE PREMIER, MARTHINUS VAN SCHALKWYK, ADDRESSING A MEDIA BRIEFING IN THE CABINET ROOM AT THE PROVINCIAL PARLIAMENT, Cape Town, 13 March 2003

In late December last year I requested our Provincial Minister for Local Government, Mr Cobus Dowry, to obtain further information regarding the allegations of a mass grave in Laingsburg. A preliminary fact-finding visit to Laingsburg on 6 February by the Department was not able to obtain sufficient information for the Provincial Cabinet to make an informed decision on the matter. A provincial task team was formed on 12 February, with Ministers Dowry (acting as Convenor) and Fransman leading the team.

The Provincial Cabinet met yesterday and considered the report of the task team on the investigations thus far. It has emerged that the oral testimony received from members of the public, whilst not conclusive, was helpful in identifying a specific area where a mass grave is alleged to be situated.

This oral evidence remains, however, untested. In order to take the process forward, and to address the serious concerns about human dignity, which these allegations have raised, the task team has evaluated a number of forms of available technology to establish scientifically if there is any evidence to support these allegations. The Western Cape Cabinet has decided to approve a recommendation by the task team for a radar scan of the area in question as a first step.

Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) has been used with some success in South and North America, as well as in parts of Europe, to aid in archaeological excavations and in some criminal investigations. These scans assist by revealing specific areas of subterranean disturbances. The accuracy of the scans can, however, be limited by the specific conductivity of the ground in question. Should the radar scan prove ineffective or inconclusive, the Provincial Government will have to take a more direct archaeological approach.

Any threat to the dignity of any community in the Western Cape is regarded by our Provincial Government in the most serious light. When there are questions raised about such issues, we will not hesitate to act. It is important, though, to ensure that a responsible process is followed, which is thorough and conclusive, but which also takes into account the feelings of those most personally affected.

I would like to thank Ministers Dowry and Fransman and the other members of the task team, especially Rev James Buys, the Moderator of the United Reformed Church, for their work thus far. I would also like to thank the Laingsburg municipality for their assistance and cooperation in helping us to investigate these allegations. Naturally this issue is one that has raised a number of very sensitive and emotional issues, and our Government is committed to addressing these concerns as thoroughly and delicately as possible.

Enquiries: Riaan Aucamp on 083-778-9923
Issued by Western Cape Provincial Government
13 March 2003