Issued by: Ministry of Defence South Africa
4 February 2000
I have noted with concern allegations of acts of human right violations levelled against some members of the South African Defence Force in Kwazulu-Natal. I view these allegations in a very serious light.
The SANDF is obliged by the constitution of the country of Defence and protect the citizens of the country. It is therefore unacceptable for any member of the SANDF to act against the spirit and letter of the constitution.
Any member of the SANDF who is guilty of breaking the law, will be dealt with severely. Like any member of the society members of National Defence Force are not above the law.
The fact that a member of the SANDF has been arrested in connection with the incident of an alleged shooting which resulted to the death of Phumlani Radebe at Umsinga Area by members of the SANDF, is testimony to my assertions.
I must point out that men and women in SANDF are doing a great job in assisting the police to fight and combat crime. I urge these men and women not to turn a blind eye when one of their own commit criminal acts against the very members of society which they seek to protect.
ENQUIRIES: SAM MKHWANAZI
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