Louis van Schoor, a convicted South African murderer known for killing dozens of black men during the apartheid era, has claimed in an interview with BBC Africa Eye that the police sanctioned his violent acts. Van Schoor, who operated as a security guard in East London, South Africa, from 1986 to 1989, was responsible for the deaths of at least 39 individuals, with the youngest victim being just 12 years old. Despite the gravity of his crimes, he served only 12 years in prison after his conviction in 1992.
Van Schoor’s killings were reportedly deemed “justifiable homicides” by the police under apartheid-era laws that allowed the use of lethal force against intruders. His claims that the police never reprimanded him and often failed to collect crucial forensic evidence at the crime scenes have sparked outrage and calls for a re-investigation of his case.
During his tenure as a security guard, Van Schoor was contracted to protect numerous white-owned businesses. He has long defended his actions by labeling his victims as “criminals” caught in the act of burglary or theft. However, testimonies from survivors and witnesses collected by BBC Africa Eye contradict these claims. Many reported being shot while surrendering or being toyed with before being shot by Van Schoor.
The BBC’s investigation, led by journalist Isa Jacobson, involved meticulous archival research and interviews with survivors and relatives of the victims. Jacobson highlighted the apparent complicity of the police and the judicial system in allowing Van Schoor’s spree to continue unchecked, further emphasizing the racial biases of the era.
Despite being sentenced to over 90 years in prison, Van Schoor was released on parole in 2004. His case, not covered by South Africa’s Truth and Reconciliation Commission, exemplifies the contentious issue of early parole for apartheid-era criminals. The documentary and podcast series “The Apartheid Killer,” set to premiere on BBC platforms, aims to shed light on these unresolved injustices and the enduring trauma they have caused.
Van Schoor’s revelations, including his lack of remorse and detailed descriptions of his actions, paint a chilling picture of a man who derived a thrill from his killings. His admission of being supported by the police has intensified calls for the re-examination of the so-called “justifiable homicides” and the role of the apartheid-era police in these crimes.
As South Africa continues to grapple with the legacy of apartheid, the stories of Van Schoor’s victims and their families serve as a stark reminder of the need for justice and accountability. The BBC’s investigation underscores the importance of addressing historical injustices to heal and move forward as a society.
