Benoni: A 74-year-old former apartheid informer, known as an Askari, is scheduled to appear before the Benoni Regional Court today on multiple charges, including 15 counts of murder, according to the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (Hawks).
According to South African Government News Agency, the Hawks stated that this court appearance follows a thorough investigation by the Serious Organised Crime Investigation's Crimes Against the State Section. This investigation emerged from three cases that were presented before the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC).
The suspect is implicated in three major incidents: Operation Zero Zero, the Nietverdiend 10, and the KwaNdebele 9. These incidents reportedly involved a deceptive strategy where young individuals were misled into believing they were receiving military training. Instead, they were given explosives and smuggled out of the country, leading to their deaths at the hands of the suspect and two accomplices. These operations allegedly took place from Vlakplaas, under the command of Eugene de Kock.
The charges against the suspect are extensive, encompassing 15 counts of murder, arson, kidnapping, unlawful possession of explosives, firearms, and ammunition, in addition to obstructing the administration of justice.
In March, President Cyril Ramaphosa emphasized his dedication to ensuring justice for victims of apartheid-era crimes, underscoring the importance of addressing their demands for accountability. The Presidency affirmed the government's resolve to deliver justice for families seeking closure for unresolved crimes from the apartheid era.