Issued by: Truth and Reconciliation Commission
JULY 27, 1998
The Amnesty Committee of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission is to hear early next month amnesty applications from six former Self Defence Unit members arising out of the killing of three people in two separate incidents near Carletonville, west of Johannesburg.
Emmanuel Selepe, is seeking amnesty for the killing of an alleged comrade-turned-vigilante, Mr Tafa Kheswa, at Khutsong township on May 6 1991. Mr Kheswa was stoned to death after being fetched from his house by a group of SDU members.
In another incident, Joel Mokoena, Khuntwana van Rooyen, Abram Maumakwe, Lebohang van Rooyen and Matshogo Morupisi are applying for amnesty for their role in the killing of Mr "KK" Nqaqu from Xhosa Section and Mr Bafino Sedisa from Tswana Section at Bekkersdal township, in the neighbouring Westonaria on September 8 the same year. The deceased were believed to be members of a group of gangsters which was allegedly waging a reign of terror in the township.
The applicants are serving prison terms ranging from ten to 13 years for the incidents. However, they have appealed against the sentence and are still waiting for the outcome.
According to the law governing the TRC operations, next of kin of the victims or any interested party have a right to attend, adduce evidence and be legally represented at the hearing.
Judge Hassen Mall will chair the hearing which will take place at the City Hall, cnr Annan Road and Gold Street, Carletonville from August 11 to 13, beginning at 9am.
Inquiries: Vuyani Green, 082-452-7858