A South African murderer, Louis van Schoor, who killed dozens of Black men during apartheid, claimed that his actions were sanctioned by the police.
Van Schoor, a security guard, asserts that others should be held accountable for the killings he committed.
In his conversation with the BBC World Service, Van Schoor aimed to present himself as less monstrous but his graphic description of his leg removal did little to improve his image.
During apartheid in the 1980s, Van Schoor, a security guard for numerous white-owned businesses, killed at least 39 Black people, with victims as young as 12. He claimed all were “criminals” caught in the act.
Schoor’s actions, sometimes multiple killings in a single night, terrified the Black community of East London.
Despite reporting each killing to the police, the end of apartheid and Nelson Mandela’s release led to Van Schoor’s arrest in 1991.
His trial, one of South Africa’s largest, was marred by the ongoing apartheid system, resulting in his conviction for only seven murders out of 39.
He served 12 years and was released in 2004.
The other 32 killings were deemed “justifiable homicides” under apartheid laws.
Van Schoor used a 9mm semi-automatic pistol, often with hollow-point bullets, causing severe injuries. He admitted to finding the act of stalking and shooting Black people exciting.
Van Schoor, who denies being a serial killer, argues that the police supported and encouraged his actions, claiming they were aware and complicit.
His case reflects broader issues of racial bias and judicial failure during apartheid.
His early release continues to anger the families of his victims, who still seek justice and closure.
