http://www.iol.co.za/index.php?set_id=1&click_id=6&art_id=nw20091218105620531C905699

South Africa has failed to investigate human rights abuses at the Kennedy Road informal settlement in Durban, Amnesty International said.

“Amnesty International deplores the continuing failure of the South African authorities to investigate impartially and fully human rights abuses which occurred during and after armed violence… last September,” a statement said.

“This despite repeated calls since October for an independent and impartial commission of inquiry into the surrounding circumstances and extent of the violence and its aftermath.”

Thabani Ndlovu and Thokozani Mnguni were stabbed to death during a youth camp held at the settlement. Numerous other people were injured when about 40 men carrying assegais, knobkierries, spears and guns stormed into the premises on September 26.

Eight people were subsequently arrested and have pending court cases.

“As a consequence of the authorities’ failure to conduct a full and impartial inquiry… human rights defenders and government critics have been placed at risk.

“Furthermore, the confidence of the targeted groups in the impartiality and effectiveness of the criminal justice response to the violence has been undermined,” the statement said. – Sapa