True Crime South Africa

This episode explores the case of Julius Mdawe, a South African serial killer whose crimes were uncovered following the disappearance of Elina Tlaka. The narrative examines how socio-economic vulnerabilities in the Masoi community allowed Mdawe to operate, leading to the discovery of multiple bodies buried on his property. The investigation and subsequent trial detail the forensic evidence that debunked Mdawe's claims of accidental death and the violent reaction from a grieving community. Ultimately, the episode covers Mdawe's sentencing to five life terms and the judge's decision to honor the victims by name.

This episode explores the unsolved murder of Danielle Labaskachny, an animal rescuer fatally shot during a robbery while tending to feral cat colonies. The narrative details the harrowing night of the attack and investigates significant concerns regarding the mishandling of evidence by police, including the premature release of her vehicle. The investigation further examines how massive backlogs in ballistic testing and DNA processing within South Africa hinder justice for victims. Despite critical leads like recovered ammunition, the lack of forensic progress and communication from authorities leaves Danielle's family without closure.

Episode 211 explores the murder of Tasne van Veijk and the systemic failures surrounding the criminal Moirian Pangakar. The episode details Pangakar's history of violent crime, his pattern of absconding from parole, and the horrific abuse inflicted upon his family members. The investigation traces the disappearance of eight-year-old Tasne von Weg, uncovering forensic evidence and a chilling admission by Pangakar. The narrative follows the subsequent police sting operation used to arrest him, the trial that exposed decades of hidden crimes, and the eventual death of Pangakar in prison.

This episode explores the life and crimes of Margaret Reader, tracing her journey from a childhood in poverty and orphanages to her marriage to Ben Reeder. As Ben suffered a violent, agonizing illness following apparent poisoning, Margaret's suspicious behavior and financial motives came to light. The investigation into Ben's death revealed a trail of arsenic purchases, leading to Margaret's arrest and eventual death sentence. The episode concludes with her final confession at the gallows, an analysis of her psychological compartmentalization, and reflections on the challenges of detecting poisonings.

This episode examines the case of Peter van der Merwe, a 19-year-old South African soldier whose 1990 killing spree and rape left a trail of violence. The narrative details his criminal history, his recruitment into the South African Defence Force despite prior convictions, and the specific events of the night he murdered three people. The investigation into his crimes was ultimately triggered by a boat theft, leading to a complex trial centered on whether his diagnosed psychopathy should be considered a mitigating or aggravating factor. The episode concludes with reflections on the evolution of our understanding of the psychopathy spectrum and a tribute to the victims: Jacob, Pietras, and Paulina.

This episode explores the tragic 2018 Kesa family murders, which began with a dispute over building funds and led to a devastating house fire that killed four family members. Following the arson, investigators discovered blood evidence and clothing linked to two brothers, though the investigation was severely hampered by forensic failures and lost DNA samples. The legal proceedings revealed significant challenges in the prosecution's case due to poor evidence collection. While Ntembeko was acquitted because of insufficient evidence, Tobeni was found guilty of four counts of murder and arson, receiving four life sentences.

In this 'rewind' episode, the host presents an audiobook chapter from her book, Bare Bones, detailing the discovery of human remains under a swimming pool in Meadowbrook. The investigation explores potential links to the notorious Van Royen criminal and examines how systemic inequalities during apartheid may have hindered the initial investigation. The episode covers recent forensic breakthroughs, including the successful extraction of a full DNA profile by the SAPS. As the search for the victim's identity continues through community engagement and new DNA database projects, the narrator reflects on the emotional weight of unidentified remains and the broader tragedy of victims from the apartheid era waiting to have their names returned.

When two vehicles collide with a group of pedestrians four children are left dead, and two others have their lives forever changed. When the dust settles the drivers of the vehicles have a lot to answer for and their culpability in the deaths is soon questioned. - 24-hr trauma helpline 082-821-3447 - Support the show on Patreon https://www.patreon.com/truecrimesa - Support the show on PayBru https://paybru.co.za/communities/true-crime-south-africa - Get TCSA and General True Crime Merch on https://sacriminologist.co.za/shop/ 10% off with code TCSA sitewide

In April 2015, 18-year-old Sheree Prince left Citrusdal for Cape Town. There, the shy and withdrawn teenager would embark on a crime spree that would end with the horrific murder of a defenseless elderly woman - 24-hr trauma helpline 082-821-3447 - Support the show on Patreon https://www.patreon.com/truecrimesa - Support the show on PayBru https://paybru.co.za/communities/true-crime-south-africa - Get TCSA and General True Crime Merch on https://sacriminologist.co.za/shop/ 10% off with code TCSA sitewide

In this final part of episode 52, we reveal the blood evidence that spoke on behalf of the victims and consider what may have really happened in the Van Breda home that night. 24-hr trauma helpline 082-821-3447 Support the show on Patreon https://www.patreon.com/truecrimesa Support the show on PayBru https://paybru.co.za/communities/true-crime-south-africa Get TCSA and General True Crime Merch on https://sacriminologist.co.za/shop/ 10% off with code TCSA sitewide

In part 3 of our series on the Van Breda family murders, we get into the physical evidence and shocking testimony of a threat against the Van Breda's in the weeks before the murders. 24-hr trauma helpline 082-821-3447 Support the show on Patreon https://www.patreon.com/truecrimesa Support the show on PayBru https://paybru.co.za/communities/true-crime-south-africa Get TCSA and General True Crime Merch on https://sacriminologist.co.za/shop/ 10% off with code TCSA sitewide

In part 1 of the Van Breda Family murders, three family members were killed by an axe-wielding murderer. In this part 2, the minor survivor clings to life, and we discuss the probability of the murders having been committed by intruders. - 24-hr trauma helpline 082-821-3447 - Support the show on Patreon https://www.patreon.com/truecrimesa - Support the show on PayBru https://paybru.co.za/communities/true-crime-south-africa - Get TCSA and General True Crime Merch on https://sacriminologist.co.za/shop/ 10% off with code TCSA sitewide

On the 27th of January 2015, emergency services surrounded a home in the upmarket De Zalze estate in Stellenbosch. Inside they would find a family slaughtered with one young girl clinging to life and another family member walking around unharmed. In Part 1 of this episode, we explore the background of the Van Breda family and the events of that fateful morning. - 24-hr trauma helpline 082-821-3447 - Support the show on Patreon https://www.patreon.com/truecrimesa - Support the show on PayBru https://paybru.co.za/communities/true-crime-south-africa - Get TCSA and General True Crime Merch on https://sacriminologist.co.za/shop/ 10% off with code TCSA sitewide

On the 19th of September 1994, the quiet neighbourhood of Mount Pleasant in PE was rocked by the savage murder of a 13-year-old girl. The investigation into the murder of Cisca du Toit would reveal one of the most shocking cases of family murder South Africa has ever seen - 24-hr trauma helpline 082-821-3447 - Support the show on Patreon https://www.patreon.com/truecrimesa - Support the show on PayBru https://paybru.co.za/communities/true-crime-south-africa - Get TCSA and General True Crime Merch on https://sacriminologist.co.za/shop/ 10% off with code TCSA sitewide

This episode explores the themes of crime and criminal archetypes through the lens of the new film The Get Out, directed by Derek Bort. The discussion begins with a breakdown of the film's plot involving Manco, an aging club owner facing threats from cartel bosses and a Bonnie and Clyde-inspired duo. The narrator uses the character dynamics between Jeff and Carrie to delve into the historical reality of the original Bonnie Parker and Clyde Barrow. The analysis contrasts the Hollywood romanticization of the 'ride-or-die' criminal couple with the tragic, violent reality of the 1930s outlaws. The episode examines how media shapes our perception of crime, specifically looking at the roles of men and women in criminal pairings and the distinction between legendary status and the brutal nature of spree murders.

This episode explores the life and tragic death of Franz Richter, a German immigrant who established the Haier Safari Lodge in South Africa. The narrative traces his journey from post-WWII Germany to his complex and controversial relationship with Siliwe Mbokazi, examining the significant power dynamics and age gaps involved. The investigation follows the fatal ambush during a routine payday trip, detailing the subsequent police pursuit, the discovery of incriminating phone records, and the eventual trial that found several individuals guilty. The story concludes with reflections on the long-term impact of these events and the tragic cycle of violence at the lodge.

In the third episode of the investigative series Where is Robert John Johnson?, the host reveals a breakthrough in his search for his former best friend. After tracking down a phone number linked to the alias Jason McGregor, the host engages in a video call with Robert John, who provides his perspective on the collapse of JM Investments and his subsequent flight from South Africa. Robert John discusses the financial pressures of over-leveraged investments, the impact of market crashes, and the severe death threats that led to his decision to flee. He addresses allegations regarding stolen funds, claiming he left with only essential belongings, and expresses deep regret over the personal consequences of his actions, including being unable to attend family funerals or witness his children grow up.

This episode investigates the whereabouts of Robert John Johnson, a South African man who fled his home in 2020 after allegedly misappropriating millions of rands from investors' pensions and life savings through his company, JM Investments. After six years of disappearance, Johnson was discovered living in Lloret de Mar, Spain, under the pseudonym Jason McGregor, where he has been frequenting local golf clubs and working in the hospitality sector. The narrator explores new evidence regarding Johnson's life in Spain, including his use of Google reviews to maintain a presence in the expat community and a suspicious cover story involving witnessing a murder to justify his flight from South Africa. The investigation also touches upon his recent attempt to obtain a South African police clearance and the lack of an active missing persons report or confirmed arrest warrant, calling for transparency from both the local community and South African authorities.

This podcast features a collaborative investigation with filmmaker Anthony Molyneux into the disappearance of Robert John Johnson, who allegedly fled South Africa after defrauding friends and family of millions. Through personal accounts from victims and an anonymous investor, the episode details how Johnson's investment scheme collapsed and his eventual sighting in Spain. The investigation explores Johnson's life in northern Spain, where he appears to be living comfortably under a pseudonym despite the devastating financial and emotional impact left behind in South Africa. The episode also includes insights from his wife, Maria, regarding the elaborate deceptions used prior to his flight.

An exploration of the upcoming film Lucky Strike, which is inspired by true events from the Battle of the Bulge during World War II. The movie follows a soldier trapped behind enemy lines who utilizes a Motorola SCR300 radio and spycraft to survive an advancing Nazi panzer army. The episode discusses the origins of the story through producer Mark Friedman's research into veteran interviews and reflects on the brutal reality of war. It contrasts the physical combat of historical conflicts with modern drone warfare, using the personal tragedy of Battle of the Bulge survivor Jim Sharp to highlight the lasting human cost of battle.

This episode explores the 'Rotten Milk Scam' orchestrated by Adrian Nevote in 1980s South Africa. Through his venture, Cubis, Nevote utilized a fraudulent beauty product premise and a massive Ponzi scheme—relying on grinding up envelopes to create a fake 'activator'—to deceive investors. The investigation follows the collapse of Cubis as it expanded into the US and UK, revealing the international scale of the fraud. The narrative traces Nevote's subsequent legal troubles, including diamond theft and controversial settlement projects like Eureka, while reflecting on the lasting impact of such schemes on their victims.

In this episode of Something Shifted, Nicole, the creator of True Crime South Africa and author of four true crime books, shares her personal journey of navigating a childhood marked by family secrets and substance use disorder. The conversation explores the psychological impact of growing up in an environment where information was kept behind closed doors to protect the family reputation. Nicole discusses the complexities of her upbringing, including her father's intermittent presence due to alcoholism and drug use, and the realization that she had to become the hero of her own story. The episode delves into how her past experiences shaped her resilience and her ability to craft stories from dark material as a professional storyteller.

This episode details the tragic events of September 2019, when Sibusiso Mpongose executed a premeditated plan to murder his four children. After changing house locks and sending his eldest child away, he strangled his three biological children before picking up his stepdaughter, Ayaka, from school to kill her as well. The episode further covers the aftermath of the crime, including the discovery of the bodies, the police investigation leading to Mpongose's arrest, and his guilty plea. It explores the psychological concept of revenge filicide and concludes with the judge sentencing him to four life sentences.

In Part 2 of our coverage of the Waterkloof 4 case, we discuss some glaring inconsistencies in the evidence and ask the question - was justice really done? (24-hr trauma helpline 082-821-3447) (Support the show on Patreon https://www.patreon.com/truecrimesa) (Support the show on PayPal https://www.paypal.me/truecrimesa)

On the 3rd of December 2001, the body of an identified man was found in Moreleta Park. 18 months later, a teenager would confess to his teacher that he and six of his friends had been keeping a deadly secret. (24-hr trauma helpline 082-821-3447) (Support the show on Patreon https://www.patreon.com/truecrimesa) (Support the show on PayPal https://www.paypal.me/truecrimesa)

This is a Rewind release of an episode originally published in May 2020. The episode has been re-recorded and updated with new and additional information. Sipho Dube was the embodiment of everything we fear. He was a child rapist and killer and he was almost completely invisible. Between 2002 and 2003, this phantom drifted between the mine dumps of JHB luring in children and then committing the most horrendous crimes. His eventual downfall would come in the form of a desperate father who just wanted justice for his little girl (24-hr trauma helpline 082-821-3447)

Sipho Dube was the embodiment of everything we fear. He was a child rapist and killer and he was almost completely invisible. Between 2002 and 2003, this phantom drifted between the mine dumps of JHB luring in children and then committing the most horrendous crimes. His eventual downfall would come in the form of a desperate father who just wanted justice for his little girl (24-hr trauma helpline 082-821-3447) (Support the show on Patreon https://www.patreon.com/truecrimesa) (Support the show on PayPal https://www.paypal.me/truecrimesa)

Over a period of four months Gugulethu, Nyanga and Delft in the Western Cape, were terrorised by a violent and coldblooded gang. Among the victims was an entire family slain in their beds as they slept. When a seasoned investigator was put on the case, he started to make progress almost immediately, and soon realised that rather than a highly organised group of criminals, these crimes were being committed by two specific individuals with the occasional addition of random cohorts. Of those two, one would become the youngest offender to receive the longest sentence ever handed down in the Western Cape. - 24-hr trauma helpline 082-821-3447 - Support the show on Patreon https://www.patreon.com/truecrimesa - Support the show on PayPal https://www.paypal.me/truecrimesa - Get TCSA and General True Crime Merch on https://sacriminologist.co.za/shop/ 10% off with code TCSA sitewide - Disclaimer voiceover: Karabo Peter - Production of intro and outro music: Botshelo Moekeletsi at the VOW 88.1 studios and produced…

25-year-old Sasha Lee Shah was building an incredible life for herself. She excelled academically, worked her way into a good job and was securing financial stability. The future was bright. But, by 2021, one part of Sasha Lee’s life was less steady. Her long-term relationship was crumbling under the weight of devastating revelations and Sasha Lee called it quits. Her ex, though, was not ready to let go, and his actions, as well as a failure of the system, destroyed countless lives, leaving a grieving mother fighting for justice. - 24-hr trauma helpline 082-821-3447 - Support the show on Patreon https://www.patreon.com/truecrimesa - Support the show on PayPal https://www.paypal.me/truecrimesa - Get TCSA and General True Crime Merch on https://sacriminologist.co.za/shop/ 10% off with code TCSA sitewide - The disclaimer voiceover was done by Karabo Peter - The production of the intro and outro music was done by Botshelo Moekeletsi at the VOW 88.1 studios and produced solely for the use of True Crime South…

This is a TCSA Rewind episode - designed to bring more attention to some of the back catalogue of episodes and provide updates in cases I've covered in the past. This episode was first released in February 2020. Listen through to the end for an update including additional information I've received since the initial episode was published. Unlike most other rewind episodes, this one has been completely re-recorded in order to fully comply with regulations passed in 2022 around the anonymization of minor victims. In 2001, South Africa was introduced to Cezanne Visser's blonde bombshell, persona, Advocate Barbie. Her overt sexuality, was curated by her lover, Dirk Prinsloo. While their escapades shocked everyone, it would soon be revealed that the couple were up to something far more sinister behind the scenes - 24-hr trauma line: 082-821-3447) - Support the show on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/truecrimesa - Support the show on PayPal: https://www.paypal.me/truecrimeSA - Get TCSA and General True Crime Merch…

In 2001, South Africa was introduced to Cezanne Visser's blonde bombshell, persona, Advocate Barbie. Her overt sexuality, was curated by her lover, Dirk Prinsloo. While their escapades shocked everyone, it would soon be revealed that the couple were up to something far more sinister behind the scenes (24-hr trauma line: 082-821-3447) (Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/truecrimesa) (PayPal: https://www.paypal.me/truecrimeSA)

In 2004, Flippie Venter was on a peacekeeping mission in Burundi with the SANDF when he was arrested for the rape and murder of a 14-year-old child sex worker. While out on bail and awaiting trial for this crime, he grew concerned that his family would cut ties with him if he were to be found guilty. He picked up an R4 rifle and made the decision for them (24-hour trauma line: 082-821-3447) (Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/truecrimesa) (PayPal: paypal.me/truecrimeSA)

Occasionally, a group of criminals commits a series of crimes so infamous that the story becomes part of South African crime folklore. When this happens, without fail, the story becomes distorted and sometimes, the reality of the brutality gets lost in the fray. This is the true story of a group of criminals who terrorised South Africa in 1913 and 1914 and the hidden legacy they left behind. Disclaimer voiceover by Karabo Peter. Production of intro and outro music by Botshelo Moekeletsi at the VOW 88.1 studios 24-hr trauma helpline 082-821-3447 Support the show on Patreon https://www.patreon.com/truecrimesa Support the show on PayPal https://www.paypal.me/truecrimesa Get TCSA and General True Crime Merch on https://sacriminologist.co.za/shop/ 10% off with code TCSA sitewide

On the 20th of May 2014, 17 police officers and three social workers pulled up outside a double-storey house in a busy road in Springs on the East Rand of Gauteng. They’d received a complaint regarding a child at risk within the house. What they would discover beyond the seemingly, normal façade of this family home disturbed even seasoned child protection officers. (24-hour Trauma Helpline: 082-821-3447)

In March 2012, a family tearing up carpets in their property make a strange discovery. A confession letter will lead a group of investigators down the multi-layered rabbit hole of a 13 year old murder. This episode is sponsored by CBS Justice. (24-hr trauma helpline 082-821-3447) (Support the show on Patreon https://www.patreon.com/truecrimesa) (Support the show on PayPal https://www.paypal.me/truecrimesa)

As South Africans, it's not uncommon for us to hear an accused person claim that the devil made them do it. In her new book, accomplished academic and all-round cool human, Dr Nicky Falkof explores this segment of crime in our country, its origins and all the ways it influences justice. In this episode we discuss the book, some of its case studies and our experiences with occult crime allegations and the consequences for real victims. If this conversation has intrigued you or you have more questions for Nicky there'll be two opportunities in May this year where you can chat with both of us. On the 15th of May at The Franschhoek Literary Festival I will join Nicky Falkof, Sara-Jayne Makwala King, and David Cornwell - author of Hell of a Country - for our session called Ordinary Monsters. You can book tickets for that on the Franschoek Literary Festival’s website. On the 23rd of May, I will join Nicky, Julian Jansen - author of the Murder of Deveney Nel - and Tara Penny of Hot FM at the Kingsmead Book Fair in…

28 year old Donovan de Jongh was a vulnerable man living with intellectual disabilities in the Western Cape when he was lured into a vehicle with three men with the promise of some take away food for dinner. What followed was an incredibly horrendous crime which shocked even communities who lived among gang violence on a daily basis. It would also make legal history in South Africa. (24-hr trauma helpline 082-821-3447) (Support the show on Patreon https://www.patreon.com/truecrimesa) (Support the show on PayPal https://www.paypal.me/truecrimesa) (Get TCSA and General True Crime Merch on https://sacriminologist.co.za/shop/ 10% off with code TCSA sitewide) Disclaimer voiceover by Karabo Peter and production of intro music by Botshelo Moekeletsi at the VOW 88.1 studios

In the early 1990s Norwood was shaken by a series of violent rapes and murders. When the violence spread to areas on the East Rand, police had to wonder if this was the same perpetrator. It was vital to catch him as quickly as possible, but there was also a serious possibility that this predator was one of them. (24-hr trauma helpline 082-821-3447) (Support the show on Patreon https://www.patreon.com/truecrimesa) (Support the show on PayPal https://www.paypal.me/truecrimesa) (Get TCSA and General True Crime Merch on https://sacriminologist.co.za/shop/ 10% off with code TCSA sitewide)

In 2019 and 2022 two major events changed the legislation which governs the publication of the names of minor offenders, victims and witnesses in South Africa. These are changes that are vital for every South African to understand. In this episode I unpack why the changes happened and it what it means for content creators and ordinary citizens. (24-hr trauma helpline 082-821-3447) (Support the show on Patreon https://www.patreon.com/truecrimesa) (Support the show on PayPal https://www.paypal.me/truecrimesa) (Get TCSA and General True Crime Merch on https://sacriminologist.co.za/shop/ 10% off with code TCSA sitewide) Don't forget to book your tickets for the live Zoom recording of episode 200: https://www.quicket.co.za/events/359328-record-episode-200-with-true-crime-south-africa/

Where the heck is episode 200, Nicole? I’ve been asked this question a lot recently, and if you don’t follow the podcast on social media you might not know the answer. So, here it is: Because episode 200 is a pretty big milestone for the podcast and all of you awesome listeners, I’m trying to set up something a bit different for it. You’ll see I have been releasing content in the meantime, just not full case episodes, and I promise the wait will not be much longer and it will definitely be worth it. Keep an eye on the feed and on social media (if you’re on there) for more information about how you can … maybe… get involved in the making of episode 200. I’ll chat to you soon.

I am very quickly popping into your feed to tell you about two new movies hitting the big screen on the 6th of February. You’ll hear ads for these two being inserted into your feed around now and if you want to win tickets to see them you should definitely keep an eye on the pod’s social media. Here’s me telling you about Wildcat and The Strangers Chapter 3

Gangsterism continues to stand in the way of communities trying to live peaceful lives and raise children in safety. In this discussion with fiction writer, James Fouche, we unpack the very real cost of crime on ordinary South Africans and how he has tried to portray that through the characters in his new book, Gray. (24-hr trauma helpline 082-821-3447) (Support the show on Patreon https://www.patreon.com/truecrimesa) (Support the show on PayPal https://www.paypal.me/truecrimesa) (Get TCSA and General True Crime Merch on https://sacriminologist.co.za/shop/ 10% off with code TCSA sitewide) Find James and his new book on www.jamesfouche.com

The brand-new release movie Dead Man's Wire hits cinemas across South Africa on 23 January, and it is based on a very real and incredibly bizarre story. In this companion podcast - brought to you by Empire Entertainment - we delve down into the true story behind a 68-hour hostage drama that changed the media, law enforcement and the legal world.

Part 2 of 2 In 2015 a slew of Hawks officers descended on a nondescript home in Bloemfontein. After detaining Danish national Peter Frederiksen the officers' first stop was his freezer. Inside, they found exactly what Peter's terrified wife had confessed they would. That discovery, though, was just the beginning of a very dark road they were about to head down with Frederiksen which spanned almost his entire life. (24-hr trauma helpline 082-821-3447) (Support the show on Patreon https://www.patreon.com/truecrimesa) (Support the show on PayPal https://www.paypal.me/truecrimesa) (Get TCSA and General True Crime Merch on https://sacriminologist.co.za/shop/ 10% off with code TCSA sitewide)

In 2015 a slew of Hawks officers descended on a nondescript home in Bloemfontein. After detaining Danish national Peter Frederiksen the officers' first stop was his freezer. Inside, they found exactly what Peter's terrified wife had confessed they would. That discovery, though, was just the beginning of a very dark road they were about to head down with Frederiksen which spanned almost his entire life. This is part 1 of 2.

This is a TCSA Rewind episode - designed to bring more attention to some of the back catalogue of episodes and provide updates in cases I've covered in the past. This episode was first released in December 2022. Listen through to the end for an update including additional information I've received since the initial episode was published. When 20-year-old Siam Lee went missing from her place of work in Kwazulu-Natal in 2018, her disappearance made headlines for all the wrong reasons. As the story developed, she and her mother would be cast as one-dimensional characters in the story being told about them. When Siam's remains were found, though, attention would shift to her alleged murderer and justice for Siam seemed to hang in the balance. (24-hr trauma helpline 082-821-3447) (Support the show on Patreon https://www.patreon.com/truecrimesa) (Support the show on PayPal https://www.paypal.me/truecrimesa) Chapters: 00:00:00 - 00:01:00 Support the Show 00:01:01 - 00:03:21 Rewind Info 00:03:22 - 01:51:00 Rewind…

In the 1950s in the KZN Midlands, one of the country's first recorded serial killers began a series of crimes which would go down in history for a few different reasons. More than 70 years later, this vintage true crime case remains one of the most infamous tales of coldblooded murder in South Africa. (24-hr trauma helpline 082-821-3447) (Support the show on Patreon https://www.patreon.com/truecrimesa) (Support the show on PayPal https://www.paypal.me/truecrimesa) (Get TCSA and General True Crime Merch on https://sacriminologist.co.za/shop/ 10% off with code TCSA sitewide)

When a well-known magistrate is found murdered in her home, the Crimes Against the State unit are called in to investigate what could be another terrible silencing of a voice of justice. The truth behind Romay van Rooyen's murder, though, was far closer to home. This episode was first released in the Patreon feed in Feb 2025 Chapters: 00:00:00 - 00:00:09 Intro 00:10:00 - 00:03:48 Support the Show 00:03:49 - 00:46:00 Episode (24-hr trauma helpline 082-821-3447) (Support the show on Patreon https://www.patreon.com/truecrimesa) (Support the show on PayPal https://www.paypal.me/truecrimesa) (Get TCSA and General True Crime Merch on sacriminologist.co.za 10% off with code TCSA sitewide)

This is a crossover episode from Jonathan Ball's Pagecast podcast. In this episode, Nicole Engelbrecht is interviewed by journalist and director of Beauty and the Bester, Anthony Molyneaux about Nicole's new book: Bare Bones: Cold Cases From True Crime South Africa

In 2023, a middle-aged accountant stood in the dock in the JHB Specialised Crimes Court at Palm Ridge and received a 25 year sentence. Her unassuming appearance belied the 13 years she had spent systematically draining her employer's bank account. In the end, the judge would say that this was the most significant financial crime he had ever presided over. Steenkamp, though, claimed it wasn't all her fault. This episode was first published in the Patreon feed in October 2024