Categories: Crime

AfriForum Collaborates in Investigating Anti-Gang Detective Charl Kinnear’s Murder

AfriForum, a private prosecution unit, has joined the investigation into the murder of Anti-Gang detective Charl Kinnear, who was shot outside his home in September 2020. Kinnear’s widow has criticized the South African Police Service (SAPS) and the Independent Police Investigative Directorate for their failure to bring those responsible to justice. AfriForum’s involvement is hoped to bring renewed urgency to the case and ensure that Kinnear’s assassination is not left unpunished, serving as a reminder to protect those who confront crime and corruption.

Seeking Justice for Charl Kinnear

Charl Kinnear, a notable Anti-Gang Unit detective, was tragically killed on September 18, 2020, after unidentified attackers shot him multiple times in the upper body. The savage event took place outside his home in Bishop Lavis, shocking and distressing his family, colleagues, and the entire community. Despite initial inquiries, the South African Police Service (SAPS) has not made substantial advancements in identifying and arresting the culprits. This prompted Western Cape anti-crime activist Zona Morton to enlist the aid of the private prosecution unit AfriForum, a subsidiary of Cape Forum.

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Morton has vehemently urged the Minister of Police to act decisively against these horrendous acts, emphasizing that the continued violence against law enforcement officers requires a stronger reaction from the authorities. Bereaved families are left yearning for answers and receive only sympathy instead of justice.

AfriForum has responded to this plea and confirmed its engagement in the investigation. Advocate Gerrie Nel, a representative of the organization, has indicated that they will work in conjunction with SAPS and the National Prosecuting Authority in the future. Nonetheless, Nel is cautious about disclosing any additional information about the case at the moment.

Criticism of Authorities and Demand for Answers

Charl Kinnear’s widow, Nicole Kinnear, has publicly condemned the SAPS and the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) for their inability to prevent her spouse’s premature demise. She contends that the absence of new evidence or progress in the case demonstrates the authorities’ incapacity to hold themselves responsible. The “highly classified” police report on the matter, shrouded in secrecy, only exacerbates her frustration.

This reticence evokes even more questions, as Police Minister Bheki Cele previously stated that the report would be released once the implicated individuals were charged. Nicole Kinnear seeks answers from SAPS, wondering why no one has been charged even after three years. She believes that her husband’s murder exemplifies SAPS’ failure to protect its officers and demands that those accountable be brought to justice.

In addition to the emotional turmoil experienced by Kinnear’s family, his death signifies a considerable hindrance in multiple high-profile investigations. One such case involves the alleged underworld figure, Nafiz Modack, and implicates SAPS officials. Kinnear’s commitment to his work made him a target, as demonstrated by the numerous death threats he received during his career.

Renewed Hope for Justice and Closure

To address these threats, Kinnear was assigned an armed police guard. Regrettably, this protection was inexplicably removed in December 2019, rendering him susceptible to his attackers. The motives for this decision remain unknown, further intensifying suspicion and mistrust in the authorities’ dedication to obtaining justice for Kinnear’s family.

The cooperation between AfriForum and the existing investigative agencies will hopefully incite a revived sense of urgency in resolving Charl Kinnear’s murder. With the organization’s involvement, the family and the public can hope that the case will finally garner the attention it warrants. Moreover, it serves as a reminder that those who confront crime and corruption must be safeguarded and their sacrifices recognized.

Revealing the truth behind Kinnear’s assassination is not only vital for his family, who seek comfort and closure but also for the countless individuals who have placed their trust in the South African justice system. Indeed, it is a matter of national significance that no stone be left unturned in the pursuit of justice. As the investigation unfolds, AfriForum’s partnership with SAPS and the National Prosecuting Authority will play a crucial role in determining the subsequent course of action and ensuring that Kinnear’s assassination does not remain unpunished.

1. Who was Charl Kinnear?

Charl Kinnear was a prominent Anti-Gang Unit detective in South Africa.

2. When was Charl Kinnear killed?

Charl Kinnear was shot and killed outside his home on September 18, 2020.

3. Who is AfriForum?

AfriForum is a private prosecution unit in South Africa.

4. What is AfriForum’s involvement in the investigation?

AfriForum has joined the investigation into Charl Kinnear’s murder in the hopes of bringing renewed urgency to the case and ensuring that his assassination is not left unpunished.

5. Why has Charl Kinnear’s widow criticized the South African Police Service (SAPS) and the Independent Police Investigative Directorate?

Nicole Kinnear has criticized the SAPS and the IPID for their failure to bring those responsible for her husband’s murder to justice.

6. What is the police report on Charl Kinnear’s murder and why is it controversial?

The police report on Charl Kinnear’s murder is “highly classified” and its secrecy has added to the frustration of his family. Police Minister Bheki Cele previously stated that the report would be released once the implicated individuals were charged, but no one has been charged even after three years.

7. What is the significance of Charl Kinnear’s murder?

Charl Kinnear’s murder signifies a considerable hindrance in multiple high-profile investigations, including one involving the alleged underworld figure, Nafiz Modack, and implicating SAPS officials. His commitment to his work made him a target, as demonstrated by the numerous death threats he received during his career.

8. What is the hope for justice and closure in Charl Kinnear’s case?

The cooperation between AfriForum and existing investigative agencies will hopefully incite a revived sense of urgency in resolving Charl Kinnear’s murder. With the organization’s involvement, the family and the public can hope that the case will finally garner the attention it warrants. Moreover, it serves as a reminder that those who confront crime and corruption must be safeguarded and their sacrifices recognized.

Aiden Abrahams

Aiden Abrahams is a Cape Town-based journalist who chronicles the city’s shifting political landscape for the Weekend Argus and Daily Maverick. Whether tracking parliamentary debates or tracing the legacy of District Six through his family’s own displacement, he roots every story in the voices that braid the Peninsula’s many cultures. Off deadline you’ll find him pacing the Sea Point promenade, debating Kaapse klopse rhythms with anyone who’ll listen.

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