Case of students murdered during apartheid set to go to trial

Four decades after the brutal murders of three Congress of South African Students, and the attempted murder of another, the matter will be heard before the Johannesburg High Court on Monday.

Former apartheid security branch police officers Christiaan Rorich and Thlomedi Mfalapitsa are accused of the murder of Eustice Madikela, Peter Matabane, and Fanyana Nhlapo; and the attempted murder of Zandisile Musi. The four were referred to as the ‘COSAS 4’.

 Rorich and Mfalapitsa reportedly face charges of murder, attempted murder, kidnapping and crimes against humanity, among others.

ALSO READ: Cosas Four: Saps given deadline to make call on state funding for former apartheid officer

Quest for equality

The search for justice has been decades in the making, after several delays attributed in part to bureaucratic obstacles and financial disputes.

In 2019, law firm Webber Wentzel took over the case on behalf of the families, collaborating with the NPA and the police. However, progress was sluggish, requiring legal action to expedite the trial.

The Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) played a significant role in uncovering the truth behind these events. Perpetrators sought amnesty through the TRC, where they acknowledged their crimes under oath. However, their amnesty bids were rejected.

ALSO READ: Families of Cosas 4 apply for bodies to be exhumed, NPA says its premature

Shedding light on the horrifying events

Two survivors of the ordeal are set to testify, shedding light on the horrifying events that unfolded. Proceedings will be held over two weeks in front of Judge Maletsatsi Betty Mahalelo.