Issued by: Truth and Reconciliation Commission
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 30 1996.
The sentencing of Col Eugene de Kock to two life sentences comes as no surprise to anyone if one bears in mind the charges made against him, including six murders.
For those who were involved in similar incidences of gross human rights violations, this should come as a very tough warning that there are only two real alternatives facing them. If the offenses had a political context, then they can either face charges in a court of law, or they can approach the Amnesty Committee of the TRC.
However, none of them should hesitate, because the deadline for amnesty applications is 14 December this year.
The Commission has already heard from Col. De Kocks attorneys and no doubt he will be making an application for amnesty in due course. It should be pointed out that there are charges on which Col. De Kock was convicted, which falls outside of the terms of reference of the Commission.