Update: Correctional Service mum over Pelser cellphone allegations

Pelser was allegedly on Facebook during his incarceration.

A screen grab of Marthinus Pelser's Facebook account, showing clearly that he was active on it on 1 August. (Photo: Supplied)

Allegations that Marthinus Pelser, 22, who is facing a charge of murder as the result of the death of his six-month-old son, has access to a cellphone inside the Krugersdorp Correctional Facility, have yet to be proved, or disproved.

Although Correctional Services spokesperson Linda de Klerk initially said that having access to a cellphone is a serious offence and that she would initiate an immediate investigation, she has yet to provide feedback on whether the incident has been investigated, and if so, what the findings are. Numerous attempts by the Record to call her have been fruitless and she has not replied to text messages.

Honeydew Police’s spokesperson, Captain Karen Jacobs also informed the investigating officer of the allegations. He has approached the facility requesting an investigation but it is unclear whether they have responded to the request.

The allegations, which surfaced on 5 August, are supported by a screengrab which makes it clear that Pelser was on Facebook during the early morning hours of 1 August. He has been in custody since 15 June, following the death of his son, Deon, on 11 June. Pelser was on the run for five days before he was arrested.

Pelser is to appear in the Roodepoort Regional Court again on 31 August.

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