Action Society is appalled and gravely concerned by reports that Xolani Du Preez, the man convicted of the brutal murder of Suritha Alting (28) was arrested for robbing citizens in Table View—less than two years after his sentencing.
On 27 November 2023, the then 18-year-old was sentenced to two years and 245 days in a child and youth care facility, followed by an additional eight years in prison for the heinous murder of Suritha. Shockingly, despite this clear sentencing, he and an accomplice were reportedly arrested on 17 April 2025 after breaking into a man’s home and stealing his cellphone. They appeared in the Cape Town Magistrate’s Court shortly thereafter.
According to the news report, a local spokesperson for the Department of Correctional Services spokesperson stated that du Preez appeared as a remand detainee and not a sentenced detainee on their system. No clarity on conviction or sentencing or if he is currently in custody could be provided. He is scheduled to appear in court again on 23 May, 2025.
“We were already deeply disappointed by the lenient sentence handed down for Suritha’s murder. Now, to learn that du Preez is freely walking the streets and committing more crimes is not only unacceptable, it’s a damning indictment of the state of our justice system,” said Action Society spokesperson, Juanita du Preez. “We demand full transparency on how this could have happened and who is responsible for this failure.”
Action Society has consistently called for tougher sentencing, particularly in cases involving violent crimes and murder.
“This case highlights exactly why we are pushing for stricter consequences for murderers, regardless of age. Communities cannot feel safe while violent offenders are allowed to reoffend with impunity,” du Preez concluded.
