Issued by: Secretary for Safety and Security
On behalf of the Secretariat for Safety and Security, I wish to congratulate the investigating and prosecution teams responsible for waging the lengthy but ultimately successful case against Eugene de Kock.
The investigating team, under South African Police Service Director Ivor Human, and the prosecution team lead by Anton Ackerman, worked under extremely difficult conditions, including threats to their lives and a shortage of resources. Without their total dedication they would never have been able to achieve so much.
The investigation involved meticulous gathering of evidence and required the creation of a witness protection programme with the assistance of a foreign government. This complex process lasted three years in all.
In years past, hit squad operatives received medals and promotions for their dirty work. I am pleased to say that under a democratic government operating within the rule of law, we now commend and congratulate those police officers and prosecutors who uncover such evil deeds of the past.
The people who made the De Kock case faced hostility and resistance from some people within the police service who prefer not to change. It is important to note, however, that the National Commissioner, George Fivaz, provided constant support and assistance to the investigation, setting an important example for SAPS members.
Investigations into other alleged crimes by security force members are continuing, and several trials involving high-ranking police are in the pipeline.
We are aware that in some cases efforts are being made to subvert the work of investigating teams, including interference with witnesses. We warn those police officers that the judge in the De Kock case regarded as a serious aggravating factor the attempts to defeat the ends of justice. De Kock also tried to cover up deeds and conceal crimes by the Vlakplaas unit. He failed, at great cost to himself and others.
I wish to echo Commissioner Fivaz' appeal to serving and past police officers to come forward to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission and apply for amnesty - just as I urge those who committed human rights abuses while serving in the liberation struggle against the government also to come forward to apply for amnesty.
We remind police officers and members of the liberation movement alike that the deadline for applying for amnesty is just over one month away, on December 14. Those who fail to apply risk facing the full force of the law, as happened to Eugene de Kock.
Azhar Cachalia
(Queries to: Thembi Mboisa, Secretariat for Safety and Security, 012-339-2533)
Issued by: Secretariat for Safety and Security Private Bag X922 PRETORIA 0001
Tel: (012) 339-2500 Fax: (012) 339-2536
7 November 1996