Issued by: Truth and Reconciliation Commission
August 12, 1998
The Amnesty Committee of the TRC has granted amnesty to an East Rand member of an Inkatha Freedom Party self-defence unit for illegal possession of a firearm.
Nelson Gabangani Mtshali (28) was sentenced to six years' imprisonment for the unlawful possession of an AK-47 rifle and ammunition. His conviction arose out of his activities in the IFP's self-defence units in Katlehong in 1993. He said in is application that he was caught transporting the rifle to Vosloorus township, where fellow SDU members were involved in fighting. He said he was acting in accordance with the political aims and instructions of the IFP.
The amnesty decision was taken in chambers. The offence does not constitute a gross human rights violation as defined by the Act guiding the TRC, so a public hearing was not necessary.
Inquiries: John Allen, 082- 452-7859