Issued by: Ministry for Safety and Security
MEDIA STATEMENT BY MINISTER FOR SAFETY AND SECURITY FS MUFAMADI
SUBJECT: RICHMOND KILLINGS
I met today with Advocate Neville Melville, executive director of the Independent Complaints Directorate, following my visit yesterday (Thursday) to the scene of the Richmond Killings earlier this week. Advocate Melville informed me that his team had already begun an intensive investigation into the matter. The ICD has sent staff members to interview those involved and is considering the possibility of holding public hearings to determine exactly what happened, with specific reference to allegations of involvement by South African Police Service officials.
I am pleased at the speed with which Advocate Mellville has started his investigation and am confident that this new institution is the right channel for an independent and impartial process to establish the truth about what took place.
I strongly urge members of the public as well as members of political organisations and the SAPS, SANDF and intelligence services to give their utmost cooperation to this investigation. In particular, those who have made public statements about the killings or have any knowledge about the incidents are especially urged to take part in the formal investigation.
I have cancelled my planned visit to the Middle East and the United States to give my full attention to the Richmond matter and to ensure that everything possible is done to protect public order and the lives of our citizens.
The provincial police structures have taken steps to provide 24-hour-a-day protection for the councillors living in the area.
The South African government has worked tirelessly since the national elections in April 1994 to reduce political violence, especially in KwaZulu Natal. We have made major progress in this regard, contributing to a significant improvement in public security. The government is absolutely determined to ensure that we do not experience a resurgence of political conflict anywhere in this country, which could jeopardise the democratic system we have all worked so hard to establish.
I have instructed the ICD to complete its investigation as soon as possible, and I give the assurance that appropriate action will be taken based on the ICD's findings.
Enquiries: Advocate Dries du Plessis. 082-444-8691