🔵 PRESS RELEASE
Action Society shocked by new parole application from convicted child killer
Action Society is outraged by the news that Marius van der Westhuizen — the former police officer who cold-bloodedly murdered his three children in 2006 — is once again seeking parole. This renewed attempt to regain his freedom is not only a grave insult to justice but also a traumatic reopening of wounds for the children’s mother and a deeply disturbed public still haunted by the brutality of his crimes.
Marius van der Westhuizen, a former senior police officer in Cape Town, was convicted in 2006 for the premeditated murder of his three children. On July 28, 2006, he fatally shot his children—Marius (8), Antoinette (21 months), and Bianca (16, who was disabled)—at their Brackenfell home. The killings were carried out in front of his then-wife, Charlotte, during a confrontation rooted in jealousy and personal turmoil. Despite claims of work-related stress and depression, the court found his actions to be deliberate and calculated.
READ MORE: https://actionsociety.co.za/action-society-shocked-by-new-parole-application-from-convicted-child-killer/
Action Society shocked by new parole application from convicted child killer
Action Society is outraged by the news that Marius van der Westhuizen — the former police officer who cold-bloodedly murdered his three children in 2006 — is once again seeking parole. This renewed attempt to regain his freedom is not only a grave insult to justice but also a traumatic reopening of wounds for the children’s mother and a deeply disturbed public still haunted by the brutality of his crimes.
Marius van der Westhuizen, a former senior police officer in Cape Town, was convicted in 2006 for the premeditated murder of his three children. On July 28, 2006, he fatally shot his children—Marius (8), Antoinette (21 months), and Bianca (16, who was disabled)—at their Brackenfell home. The killings were carried out in front of his then-wife, Charlotte, during a confrontation rooted in jealousy and personal turmoil. Despite claims of work-related stress and depression, the court found his actions to be deliberate and calculated.
READ MORE: https://actionsociety.co.za/action-society-shocked-by-new-parole-application-from-convicted-child-killer/
Action Society
Action Society shocked by new parole application from convicted child killer - Action Society
Action Society is outraged by the news that Marius van der Westhuizen — the former police officer who cold-bloodedly murdered his three children in 2006 — is once again seeking parole. This renewed attempt to regain his freedom is not only a grave insult…
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🔵 PRESS RELEASE
No More Excuses: Action Society demands accountability after killer walks free
Finger-pointing and blame-shifting by politicians will not solve the horrendous administrative failures that let dangerous criminals walk free. This follows after the murderer of Suritha Alting, Xolani Du Preez, was let out of custody along with two other criminals after appearing and receiving bail related to an attack on personnel at the institution where they were incarcerated as minors for their previous serious criminal activities. The Department of Correctional Services, its Minister Pieter Groenewald, the Western Cape Department of Social Development, MEC Jaco Londt and the Horizon Youth Centre all blame each other for this administrative blunder.
READ MORE: https://actionsociety.co.za/no-more-excuses-action-society-demands-accountability-after-killer-walks-free/
No More Excuses: Action Society demands accountability after killer walks free
Finger-pointing and blame-shifting by politicians will not solve the horrendous administrative failures that let dangerous criminals walk free. This follows after the murderer of Suritha Alting, Xolani Du Preez, was let out of custody along with two other criminals after appearing and receiving bail related to an attack on personnel at the institution where they were incarcerated as minors for their previous serious criminal activities. The Department of Correctional Services, its Minister Pieter Groenewald, the Western Cape Department of Social Development, MEC Jaco Londt and the Horizon Youth Centre all blame each other for this administrative blunder.
READ MORE: https://actionsociety.co.za/no-more-excuses-action-society-demands-accountability-after-killer-walks-free/
Action Society
No More Excuses: Action Society demands accountability after killer walks free - Action Society
Finger-pointing and blame-shifting by politicians will not solve the horrendous administrative failures that let dangerous criminals walk free. This follows after the murderer of Suritha Alting, Xolani Du Preez, was let out of custody along with two other…
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🔵 PRESS RELEASE
Action Society calls for immediate removal of criminal officers from SAPS ranks.
Police officers committing crimes have no place in the police force and should be removed from service without pay as soon as a crime is reported. If they are found not guilty they may be reinstated with back pay. If found guilty they should be treated as any other criminal in this country.
The erosion of trust in law enforcement is reaching crisis levels, driven in part by the well-known presence of officers with serious criminal records still serving in active duty.
READ MORE: https://actionsociety.co.za/action-society-calls-for-immediate-removal-of-criminal-officers-from-saps-ranks/
Action Society calls for immediate removal of criminal officers from SAPS ranks.
Police officers committing crimes have no place in the police force and should be removed from service without pay as soon as a crime is reported. If they are found not guilty they may be reinstated with back pay. If found guilty they should be treated as any other criminal in this country.
The erosion of trust in law enforcement is reaching crisis levels, driven in part by the well-known presence of officers with serious criminal records still serving in active duty.
READ MORE: https://actionsociety.co.za/action-society-calls-for-immediate-removal-of-criminal-officers-from-saps-ranks/
Action Society
Action Society calls for immediate removal of criminal officers from SAPS ranks - Action Society
Police officers committing crimes have no place in the police force and should be removed from service without pay as soon as a crime is reported. If they are found not guilty they may be reinstated with back pay. If found guilty they should be treated as…
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Action Society will be hosting a Gender-Based Violence awareness programme on Monday, 9 June 2025, from 10:00 to 12:00 at Westridge Library in Mitchells Plain.
The session will cover the reality of GBV in South Africa and provide practical guidance on Protection Orders.
đź“Ť Westridge Library, Mitchells Plain
đź“… Monday, 9 June 2025
🕙 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
What we’ll cover:
🔎 The harsh reality of GBV in South Africa
🛡️ Everything you need to know about Protection Orders - how they work, how to apply, and how they can protect you.
No cost. No registration. Just show up.
The session will cover the reality of GBV in South Africa and provide practical guidance on Protection Orders.
đź“Ť Westridge Library, Mitchells Plain
đź“… Monday, 9 June 2025
🕙 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
What we’ll cover:
🔎 The harsh reality of GBV in South Africa
🛡️ Everything you need to know about Protection Orders - how they work, how to apply, and how they can protect you.
No cost. No registration. Just show up.
🔵 PRESS RELEASE
#BlueLightMafia out of strategies, tries final attempt to escape prosecution through Section 174 application – Action Society.
The legal team representing the #BlueLightMafia eight has opted to try and escape prosecution by bringing a Section 174 application to discharge the accused due to insufficient evidence after all of their other strategies failed. Action Society views this as a futile effort to avoid accountability. The application will be heard on 12 August, with judgment on the application expected on 21 August. If the application is unsuccessful, the case will continue.
READ MORE: https://actionsociety.co.za/bluelightmafia-out-of-strategies-tries-final-attempt-to-escape-prosecution-through-section-174-application-action-society/
#BlueLightMafia out of strategies, tries final attempt to escape prosecution through Section 174 application – Action Society.
The legal team representing the #BlueLightMafia eight has opted to try and escape prosecution by bringing a Section 174 application to discharge the accused due to insufficient evidence after all of their other strategies failed. Action Society views this as a futile effort to avoid accountability. The application will be heard on 12 August, with judgment on the application expected on 21 August. If the application is unsuccessful, the case will continue.
READ MORE: https://actionsociety.co.za/bluelightmafia-out-of-strategies-tries-final-attempt-to-escape-prosecution-through-section-174-application-action-society/
Action Society
#BlueLightMafia out of strategies, tries final attempt to escape prosecution through Section 174 application - Action Society …
The legal team representing the #BlueLightMafia eight has opted to try and escape prosecution by bringing a Section 174 application to discharge the accused due to insufficient evidence after all of their other strategies failed. Action Society views this…
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🔵 PRESS RELEASE
South Africa’s Murder Rate Surpasses War Zone Deaths – Action Society Launches “Decade of Decline” Campaign.
In 2024, South Africa recorded a staggering 26 232 murders – a death toll that surpasses the tragic number of lives lost in Gaza – an active war zone – during the same year. While the South African government leads international proceedings at the International Court of Justice over the crisis in Gaza, the bloodbath within our own borders escalates.
In response to the murder crisis in South Africa, Action Society has launched the “Decade of Decline” campaign, a national call to action highlighting the spiralling crime rates and the government’s systemic failure to protect its citizens.
READ MORE: https://actionsociety.co.za/south-africas-murder-rate-surpasses-war-zone-deaths-action-society-launches-decade-of-decline-campaign/
South Africa’s Murder Rate Surpasses War Zone Deaths – Action Society Launches “Decade of Decline” Campaign.
In 2024, South Africa recorded a staggering 26 232 murders – a death toll that surpasses the tragic number of lives lost in Gaza – an active war zone – during the same year. While the South African government leads international proceedings at the International Court of Justice over the crisis in Gaza, the bloodbath within our own borders escalates.
In response to the murder crisis in South Africa, Action Society has launched the “Decade of Decline” campaign, a national call to action highlighting the spiralling crime rates and the government’s systemic failure to protect its citizens.
READ MORE: https://actionsociety.co.za/south-africas-murder-rate-surpasses-war-zone-deaths-action-society-launches-decade-of-decline-campaign/
Action Society
South Africa’s Murder Rate Surpasses War Zone Deaths – Action Society Launches “Decade of Decline” Campaign - Action Society
In 2024, South Africa recorded a staggering 26 232 murders – a death toll that surpasses the tragic number of lives lost in Gaza – an active war zone – during the same year. While the South African government leads international proceedings at the International…
⚖️ Court Wrap: Delays, Violence, and a Failing System – Action Society Monitors Justice in the Western Cape.
Courtrooms across the Western Cape continue to echo with the names of women and children brutalised, murdered, and forgotten by a justice system that moves at a glacial pace. From gang violence to intimate partner killings, these cases show the devastating cost of crime and state failure. Action Society remains present in these courts—not out of duty, but out of hope. Below is a breakdown of the latest developments in some of the region’s most harrowing cases.
READ MORE: https://actionsociety.co.za/courtwrap-delays-violence-and-a-failing-system-action-society-monitors-justice-in-the-western-cape/
Courtrooms across the Western Cape continue to echo with the names of women and children brutalised, murdered, and forgotten by a justice system that moves at a glacial pace. From gang violence to intimate partner killings, these cases show the devastating cost of crime and state failure. Action Society remains present in these courts—not out of duty, but out of hope. Below is a breakdown of the latest developments in some of the region’s most harrowing cases.
READ MORE: https://actionsociety.co.za/courtwrap-delays-violence-and-a-failing-system-action-society-monitors-justice-in-the-western-cape/
Action Society
CourtWrap: Delays, Violence, and a Failing System - Action Society Monitors Justice in the Western Cape - Action Society
Courtrooms across the Western Cape continue to echo with the names of women and children brutalised, murdered, and forgotten by a justice system that moves at a glacial pace. From gang violence to intimate partner killings, these cases show the devastating…
PRESS RELEASE || Action Society Demands Full Policing Powers Be Assigned to Capable Municipalities Immediately
Action Society calls on the Minister of Police to urgently assign full policing powers to municipalities that demonstrate the capacity, leadership, and operational readiness to address crime effectively within their jurisdictions.
READ MORE: https://actionsociety.co.za/action-society-demands-full-policing-powers-be-assigned-to-capable-municipalities-immediately/
Action Society calls on the Minister of Police to urgently assign full policing powers to municipalities that demonstrate the capacity, leadership, and operational readiness to address crime effectively within their jurisdictions.
READ MORE: https://actionsociety.co.za/action-society-demands-full-policing-powers-be-assigned-to-capable-municipalities-immediately/
Action Society
Action Society Demands Full Policing Powers Be Assigned to Capable Municipalities Immediately - Action Society
Action Society calls on the Minister of Police to urgently assign full policing powers to municipalities that demonstrate the capacity, leadership, and operational readiness to address crime effectively within their jurisdictions. Action Society has been…
🔵 PRESS RELEASE
Action Society to oversee Chanelle Plaatjies case on behalf of family – calls for bail to be denied.
Action Society has been formally mandated by the family of 16-year-old Chanelle Plaatjies to oversee the criminal proceedings into her murder, ensuring transparency and consistent monitoring as the case unfolds. The organisation has called on the court to deny bail to the remaining accused, highlighting the brutal nature of the crime and the trauma suffered by the community.
READ MORE: https://actionsociety.co.za/action-society-to-oversee-chanelle-plaatjies-case-on-behalf-of-family-calls-for-bail-to-be-denied/
Action Society to oversee Chanelle Plaatjies case on behalf of family – calls for bail to be denied.
Action Society has been formally mandated by the family of 16-year-old Chanelle Plaatjies to oversee the criminal proceedings into her murder, ensuring transparency and consistent monitoring as the case unfolds. The organisation has called on the court to deny bail to the remaining accused, highlighting the brutal nature of the crime and the trauma suffered by the community.
READ MORE: https://actionsociety.co.za/action-society-to-oversee-chanelle-plaatjies-case-on-behalf-of-family-calls-for-bail-to-be-denied/
Action Society
Action Society to oversee Chanelle Plaatjies case on behalf of family – calls for bail to be denied - Action Society
Action Society has been formally mandated by the family of 16-year-old Chanelle Plaatjies to oversee the criminal proceedings into her murder, ensuring transparency and consistent monitoring as the case unfolds. The organisation has called on the court to…
🔵 PRESS RELEASE
Justice delayed, danger prolonged: Action Society demands accountability in ongoing domestic violence trial.
The drawn-out legal process in a Cape Town domestic violence case once again underscores how South Africa’s justice system continues to fail victims – particularly women trapped in abusive relationships.
Action Society is closely monitoring the trial of a Cape Town man, a practising lawyer, who was arrested on 4 July 2024 after allegedly beating, kicking, choking, and attempting to suffocate his former partner, Rosemary*. The brutal assault occurred on 25 June 2024. He fled the scene but was later apprehended and charged. He now stands accused of attempted murder, with additional domestic violence charges set to be added.
READ MORE: https://actionsociety.co.za/justice-delayed-danger-prolonged-action-society-demands-accountability-in-ongoing-domestic-violence-trial/
Justice delayed, danger prolonged: Action Society demands accountability in ongoing domestic violence trial.
The drawn-out legal process in a Cape Town domestic violence case once again underscores how South Africa’s justice system continues to fail victims – particularly women trapped in abusive relationships.
Action Society is closely monitoring the trial of a Cape Town man, a practising lawyer, who was arrested on 4 July 2024 after allegedly beating, kicking, choking, and attempting to suffocate his former partner, Rosemary*. The brutal assault occurred on 25 June 2024. He fled the scene but was later apprehended and charged. He now stands accused of attempted murder, with additional domestic violence charges set to be added.
READ MORE: https://actionsociety.co.za/justice-delayed-danger-prolonged-action-society-demands-accountability-in-ongoing-domestic-violence-trial/
Action Society
Justice delayed, danger prolonged: Action Society demands accountability in ongoing domestic violence trial - Action Society
The drawn-out legal process in a Cape Town domestic violence case once again underscores how South Africa’s justice system continues to fail victims – particularly women trapped in abusive relationships. Action Society is closely monitoring the trial of a…
🔵 PRESS RELEASE
Action Society to oversee high-profile case against Jacques Pretorius
Action Society has been officially mandated to provide oversight in the murder case against Jacques Pretorius, the founding Managing Director of Absa iDirect who also served on the joint executive committee of Absa Insurance Company and Absa iDirect.
Pretorius was arrested on 11 March 2025 at his home in Somerset West. Initially, his wife’s death was treated as a suicide. However, new forensic evidence led investigators to conclude that Sheri Ann was strangled and that the crime scene had been staged to mislead authorities. Pretorius faces charges of premeditated murder and defeating the ends of justice. He pleaded not guilty and was granted R 5 000 bail during his first appearance in the Somerset West Magistrate’s Court.
READ MORE: https://actionsociety.co.za/action-society-to-oversee-high-profile-case-against-jacques-pretorius/
Action Society to oversee high-profile case against Jacques Pretorius
Action Society has been officially mandated to provide oversight in the murder case against Jacques Pretorius, the founding Managing Director of Absa iDirect who also served on the joint executive committee of Absa Insurance Company and Absa iDirect.
Pretorius was arrested on 11 March 2025 at his home in Somerset West. Initially, his wife’s death was treated as a suicide. However, new forensic evidence led investigators to conclude that Sheri Ann was strangled and that the crime scene had been staged to mislead authorities. Pretorius faces charges of premeditated murder and defeating the ends of justice. He pleaded not guilty and was granted R 5 000 bail during his first appearance in the Somerset West Magistrate’s Court.
READ MORE: https://actionsociety.co.za/action-society-to-oversee-high-profile-case-against-jacques-pretorius/
Action Society
Action Society to oversee high-profile case against Jacques Pretorius - Action Society
Action Society has been officially mandated to provide oversight in the murder case against Jacques Pretorius, the founding Managing Director of Absa iDirect who also served on the joint executive committee of Absa Insurance Company and Absa iDirect. Pretorius…
⚖️ Action Society Courtwrap: We track every case because every victim matters.
Justice in South Africa continues to be undermined by delays, dysfunction, and disregard for victims. Action Society monitors cases across the country because every victim deserves to be seen, heard, and remembered. We consistently see cases postponed due to retiring magistrates, missing files, absent interpreters, and accused persons abusing the system. These failures are not isolated—they are systemic. That’s why we are calling for urgent reforms: stricter limits on unjustified postponements, and the full publication of the National Register for Sex Offenders. Until these changes take root, we will keep the pressure on—tracking delays, demanding accountability, and standing with victims every step of the way.
Read more: https://actionsociety.co.za/action-society-courtwrap-we-track-every-case-because-every-victim-matters/
Justice in South Africa continues to be undermined by delays, dysfunction, and disregard for victims. Action Society monitors cases across the country because every victim deserves to be seen, heard, and remembered. We consistently see cases postponed due to retiring magistrates, missing files, absent interpreters, and accused persons abusing the system. These failures are not isolated—they are systemic. That’s why we are calling for urgent reforms: stricter limits on unjustified postponements, and the full publication of the National Register for Sex Offenders. Until these changes take root, we will keep the pressure on—tracking delays, demanding accountability, and standing with victims every step of the way.
Read more: https://actionsociety.co.za/action-society-courtwrap-we-track-every-case-because-every-victim-matters/
Action Society
Action Society Courtwrap: We track every case because every victim matters - Action Society
Justice in South Africa continues to be undermined by delays, dysfunction, and disregard for victims. Action Society monitors cases across the country because every victim deserves to be seen, heard, and remembered. We consistently see cases postponed due…
🔵 PRESS RELEASE
Another insult to justice: Sentencing of Nosiphiwo James’ killer postponed again
Action Society is infuriated by yet another delay in the murder case of Nosiphiwo James. The sentencing of convicted murderer Sivuyile Tshabile—expected to take place today—has now been postponed to 8 September 2025 due to the probation and pre-sentencing report still being outstanding. This latest delay is yet another devastating blow to a family that has already waited more than three years for justice.
“This postponement is not just an administrative issue—it is a disgrace,” said Kaylynn Palm, head of Action Society’s Action Centre in the Western Cape. “Nosiphiwo’s family has endured delay after delay, intimidation, evasions and trauma. To now have to wait another two months for sentencing after a guilty verdict has already been delivered is an unacceptable failure of the justice system.”
READ MORE: https://actionsociety.co.za/another-insult-to-justice-sentencing-of-nosiphiwo-james-killer-postponed-again/
Another insult to justice: Sentencing of Nosiphiwo James’ killer postponed again
Action Society is infuriated by yet another delay in the murder case of Nosiphiwo James. The sentencing of convicted murderer Sivuyile Tshabile—expected to take place today—has now been postponed to 8 September 2025 due to the probation and pre-sentencing report still being outstanding. This latest delay is yet another devastating blow to a family that has already waited more than three years for justice.
“This postponement is not just an administrative issue—it is a disgrace,” said Kaylynn Palm, head of Action Society’s Action Centre in the Western Cape. “Nosiphiwo’s family has endured delay after delay, intimidation, evasions and trauma. To now have to wait another two months for sentencing after a guilty verdict has already been delivered is an unacceptable failure of the justice system.”
READ MORE: https://actionsociety.co.za/another-insult-to-justice-sentencing-of-nosiphiwo-james-killer-postponed-again/
Action Society
Another insult to justice: Sentencing of Nosiphiwo James’ killer postponed again - Action Society
Action Society is infuriated by yet another delay in the murder case of Nosiphiwo James. The sentencing of convicted murderer Sivuyile Tshabile—expected to take place today—has now been postponed to 8 September 2025 due to the probation and pre-sentencing…
🔵 PRESS RELEASE
Rot at the top: Action Society demands independent inquiry into SAPS corruption.
Action Society is calling for an immediate independent judicial inquiry into the explosive allegations against Minister of Police Senzo Mchunu. The inquiry must have full subpoena powers, offer protection to whistle-blowers, and operate entirely outside SAPS or parliamentary structures. The organisation also renews its call for urgent structural reform — including the decentralisation of policing and the reinstatement of an autonomous anti-corruption unit — to dismantle the systems that enable political interference and organised crime to flourish.
These demands follow shocking claims made by KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner Lieutenant-General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, who accused Minister Mchunu and Deputy National Commissioner Shadrack Sibiya of deliberately interfering in investigations, protecting criminal networks, and disbanding an elite task team that had made significant progress in exposing politically linked syndicates. While these are, at present, allegations, the fact that they come from one of the most senior policing figures in the country points to a deep crisis of integrity within the SAPS.
READ MORE: https://actionsociety.co.za/rot-at-the-top-action-society-demands-independent-inquiry-into-saps-corruption/
Rot at the top: Action Society demands independent inquiry into SAPS corruption.
Action Society is calling for an immediate independent judicial inquiry into the explosive allegations against Minister of Police Senzo Mchunu. The inquiry must have full subpoena powers, offer protection to whistle-blowers, and operate entirely outside SAPS or parliamentary structures. The organisation also renews its call for urgent structural reform — including the decentralisation of policing and the reinstatement of an autonomous anti-corruption unit — to dismantle the systems that enable political interference and organised crime to flourish.
These demands follow shocking claims made by KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner Lieutenant-General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, who accused Minister Mchunu and Deputy National Commissioner Shadrack Sibiya of deliberately interfering in investigations, protecting criminal networks, and disbanding an elite task team that had made significant progress in exposing politically linked syndicates. While these are, at present, allegations, the fact that they come from one of the most senior policing figures in the country points to a deep crisis of integrity within the SAPS.
READ MORE: https://actionsociety.co.za/rot-at-the-top-action-society-demands-independent-inquiry-into-saps-corruption/
Action Society
Rot at the top: Action Society demands independent inquiry into SAPS corruption - Action Society
Action Society is calling for an immediate independent judicial inquiry into the explosive allegations against Minister of Police Senzo Mchunu. The inquiry must have full subpoena powers, offer protection to whistle-blowers, and operate entirely outside SAPS…
🔵 PRESS RELEASE
Action Society demands answers over botched detention of Suritha Alting’s killer: Formal letter sent to Minister Groenewald.
Action Society has formally written to the Minister of Correctional Services, Pieter Groenewald, demanding urgent answers and accountability after the unlawful release of convicted murderer Xolani du Preez and two other dangerous offenders from state custody.
Du Preez was serving an 11-year sentence for the 2022 murder of 28-year-old Suritha Alting. Before being transferred to Pollsmoor Correctional Centre, Xolani du Preez was held at the Horizon Youth Correctional Centre, which is located in Faure, near Cape Town. This facility typically houses younger offenders and is managed by the Department of Correctional Services. Following an assault on staff at the Horizon Centre, Du Preez and the two others were moved to Pollsmoor following a High Court order in July 2024 directed their continued incarceration there due to the seriousness of their crimes. Despite this, they were later wrongfully released after a court appearance as if they were remand detainees, not sentenced prisoners—an error Action Society is now challenging.
READ MORE: https://actionsociety.co.za/action-society-demands-answers-over-botched-detention-of-suritha-altings-killer-formal-letter-sent-to-minister-groenewald/
Action Society demands answers over botched detention of Suritha Alting’s killer: Formal letter sent to Minister Groenewald.
Action Society has formally written to the Minister of Correctional Services, Pieter Groenewald, demanding urgent answers and accountability after the unlawful release of convicted murderer Xolani du Preez and two other dangerous offenders from state custody.
Du Preez was serving an 11-year sentence for the 2022 murder of 28-year-old Suritha Alting. Before being transferred to Pollsmoor Correctional Centre, Xolani du Preez was held at the Horizon Youth Correctional Centre, which is located in Faure, near Cape Town. This facility typically houses younger offenders and is managed by the Department of Correctional Services. Following an assault on staff at the Horizon Centre, Du Preez and the two others were moved to Pollsmoor following a High Court order in July 2024 directed their continued incarceration there due to the seriousness of their crimes. Despite this, they were later wrongfully released after a court appearance as if they were remand detainees, not sentenced prisoners—an error Action Society is now challenging.
READ MORE: https://actionsociety.co.za/action-society-demands-answers-over-botched-detention-of-suritha-altings-killer-formal-letter-sent-to-minister-groenewald/
Action Society
Action Society demands answers over botched detention of Suritha Alting’s killer: Formal letter sent to Minister Groenewald - Action…
Action Society has formally written to the Minister of Correctional Services, Pieter Groenewald, demanding urgent answers and accountability after the unlawful release of convicted murderer Xolani du Preez and two other dangerous offenders from state custody.…
🔵 PRESS RELEASE
Action Society slams government’s double standard: Road safety gets blitzes, while violent crime is ignored
As South Africa enters another school holiday and long-weekend period, Action Society is calling out government’s blatant double standard: while road safety receives national campaigns, funding, and police visibility, the country’s violent crime epidemic continues to be met with silence and inaction.
South Africa’s road-traffic fatality rate stands at approximately 24,5 deaths per 100 000 people. These figures have prompted predictable bursts of awareness drives, high-visibility policing, and national mobilisation.
READ MORE: https://actionsociety.co.za/action-society-slams-governments-double-standard-road-safety-gets-blitzes-while-violent-crime-is-ignored/
Action Society slams government’s double standard: Road safety gets blitzes, while violent crime is ignored
As South Africa enters another school holiday and long-weekend period, Action Society is calling out government’s blatant double standard: while road safety receives national campaigns, funding, and police visibility, the country’s violent crime epidemic continues to be met with silence and inaction.
South Africa’s road-traffic fatality rate stands at approximately 24,5 deaths per 100 000 people. These figures have prompted predictable bursts of awareness drives, high-visibility policing, and national mobilisation.
READ MORE: https://actionsociety.co.za/action-society-slams-governments-double-standard-road-safety-gets-blitzes-while-violent-crime-is-ignored/
Action Society
Action Society slams government’s double standard: Road safety gets blitzes, while violent crime is ignored - Action Society
As South Africa enters another school holiday and long-weekend period, Action Society is calling out government’s blatant double standard: while road safety receives national campaigns, funding, and police visibility, the country’s violent crime epidemic…
🔵 PRESS RELEASE
Ramaphosa’s Commission a Delaying Tactic While South Africans Continue to Suffer
President Cyril Ramaphosa’s announcement of a judicial commission of inquiry into allegations of deep-rooted criminal collusion within the SAPS is not a decisive intervention. It’s just another delay tactic.
While Action Society acknowledges the gravity of the allegations made by Lieutenant-General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, we are deeply concerned that the establishment of yet another commission will simply buy time for the political elite while the justice system continues to collapse around ordinary citizens.
READ MORE: https://actionsociety.co.za/ramaphosas-commission-a-delaying-tactic-while-south-africans-continue-to-suffer/
Ramaphosa’s Commission a Delaying Tactic While South Africans Continue to Suffer
President Cyril Ramaphosa’s announcement of a judicial commission of inquiry into allegations of deep-rooted criminal collusion within the SAPS is not a decisive intervention. It’s just another delay tactic.
While Action Society acknowledges the gravity of the allegations made by Lieutenant-General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, we are deeply concerned that the establishment of yet another commission will simply buy time for the political elite while the justice system continues to collapse around ordinary citizens.
READ MORE: https://actionsociety.co.za/ramaphosas-commission-a-delaying-tactic-while-south-africans-continue-to-suffer/
Action Society
Ramaphosa’s Commission a Delaying Tactic While South Africans Continue to Suffer - Action Society
President Cyril Ramaphosa’s announcement of a judicial commission of inquiry into allegations of deep-rooted criminal collusion within the SAPS is not a decisive intervention. It’s just another delay tactic. While Action Society acknowledges the gravity of…
⚖️ Courtwrap: Justice at Last? Nadia Lotz Trial Gains Momentum
After more than two years of frustrating delays, the murder trial of Nadia Lotz is finally gaining momentum in the Strand Regional Court. Her case is one of several that Action Society is closely monitoring as part of our ongoing fight against court backlogs and systemic failures in the justice system.
Every postponement deepens the trauma for families and undermines faith in the rule of law. That’s why Action Society remains present—not only in courtrooms, but also alongside the families, offering support and demanding accountability. We are committed to ensuring that justice is not delayed indefinitely and that the voices of victims are never forgotten.
This week saw important developments in several key cases. Here’s our full courtwrap.
https://actionsociety.co.za/courtwrap-justice-at-last-nadia-lotz-trial-gains-momentum/
After more than two years of frustrating delays, the murder trial of Nadia Lotz is finally gaining momentum in the Strand Regional Court. Her case is one of several that Action Society is closely monitoring as part of our ongoing fight against court backlogs and systemic failures in the justice system.
Every postponement deepens the trauma for families and undermines faith in the rule of law. That’s why Action Society remains present—not only in courtrooms, but also alongside the families, offering support and demanding accountability. We are committed to ensuring that justice is not delayed indefinitely and that the voices of victims are never forgotten.
This week saw important developments in several key cases. Here’s our full courtwrap.
https://actionsociety.co.za/courtwrap-justice-at-last-nadia-lotz-trial-gains-momentum/
Action Society
Courtwrap: Justice at Last? Nadia Lotz Trial Gains Momentum - Action Society
After more than two years of frustrating delays, the murder trial of Nadia Lotz is finally gaining momentum in the Strand Regional Court. Her case is one of several that Action Society is closely monitoring as part of our ongoing fight against court backlogs…
🔵 PRESS RELEASE
Justice for Sive: Action Society stands firm as trial date approaches.
The man accused of attempting to murder Sivenathi “Sive” Toto will finally face trial on Thursday, 18 July 2025, in the George Regional Court – marking nearly three years since the brutal assault that altered her life forever.
Sive was just 23 years old when she was attacked on 26 August 2022 in Lawaaikamp, George. According to reports, the accused, Shaun Madonono, had earlier lost a fight to Sive’s boyfriend. In retaliation, he allegedly broke into Sive’s home, dragged her to his own residence, and assaulted her until she lost consciousness. He then dumped her near a petrol station on Nelson Mandela Boulevard, where she was later found by a petrol attendant.
READ MORE: https://actionsociety.co.za/justice-for-sive-action-society-stands-firm-as-trial-date-approaches/
Justice for Sive: Action Society stands firm as trial date approaches.
The man accused of attempting to murder Sivenathi “Sive” Toto will finally face trial on Thursday, 18 July 2025, in the George Regional Court – marking nearly three years since the brutal assault that altered her life forever.
Sive was just 23 years old when she was attacked on 26 August 2022 in Lawaaikamp, George. According to reports, the accused, Shaun Madonono, had earlier lost a fight to Sive’s boyfriend. In retaliation, he allegedly broke into Sive’s home, dragged her to his own residence, and assaulted her until she lost consciousness. He then dumped her near a petrol station on Nelson Mandela Boulevard, where she was later found by a petrol attendant.
READ MORE: https://actionsociety.co.za/justice-for-sive-action-society-stands-firm-as-trial-date-approaches/
Action Society
Justice for Sive: Action Society stands firm as trial date approaches - Action Society
The man accused of attempting to murder Sivenathi “Sive” Toto will finally face trial on Thursday, 18 July 2025, in the George Regional Court – marking nearly three years since the brutal assault that altered her life forever. Sive was just 23 years old when…
🔵 PRESS RELEASE
Action Society takes up mandate to pursue justice for Jayden Masson.
Action Society has been officially mandated by the family of 16-year-old Jayden Masson to assist in securing justice after his suspicious death in December 2021. As a first step, Action Society has written to the prosecutor assigned to the matter, requesting urgent clarity on the status of the inquest, the ongoing delay in the issuing of subpoenas, and the reasoning behind the unexplained transfer of the docket to Meyerton.
Jayden died on 22 December 2021 at his father’s property on Aloe Ridge Drive in the Walkerville area, south of Johannesburg. Despite overwhelming medical and forensic evidence indicating grievous bodily harm, the investigation into his death has been severely mishandled—raising serious questions about accountability within the justice system.
READ MORE: https://actionsociety.co.za/action-society-takes-up-mandate-to-pursue-justice-for-jayden-masson/
Action Society takes up mandate to pursue justice for Jayden Masson.
Action Society has been officially mandated by the family of 16-year-old Jayden Masson to assist in securing justice after his suspicious death in December 2021. As a first step, Action Society has written to the prosecutor assigned to the matter, requesting urgent clarity on the status of the inquest, the ongoing delay in the issuing of subpoenas, and the reasoning behind the unexplained transfer of the docket to Meyerton.
Jayden died on 22 December 2021 at his father’s property on Aloe Ridge Drive in the Walkerville area, south of Johannesburg. Despite overwhelming medical and forensic evidence indicating grievous bodily harm, the investigation into his death has been severely mishandled—raising serious questions about accountability within the justice system.
READ MORE: https://actionsociety.co.za/action-society-takes-up-mandate-to-pursue-justice-for-jayden-masson/
Action Society
Action Society takes up mandate to pursue justice for Jayden Masson - Action Society
Action Society has been officially mandated by the family of 16-year-old Jayden Masson to assist in securing justice after his suspicious death in December 2021. As a first step, Action Society has written to the prosecutor assigned to the matter, requesting…