Condolences for family of NPA Deputy Head

The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) has expressed condolences to the De Kock family, following the passing of Deputy National Director of Public Prosecutions (DNDPP), Advocate Rodney De Kock.

De Kock passed away on Monday following a brain cancer diagnosis in December.

“The NPA leadership, NPA staff and colleagues in the criminal justice system will miss his passion for justice and the rule of law in this country. DK, as we fondly called him, was a pillar of strength in the NPA.

“Strength to the De Kock family and friends, and his NPA family during this difficult time,” the prosecutorial body said in a statement.

The NDPP, Advocate Shamila Batohi said: “This is a huge loss for the NPA and the country. He was a solid lawyer, a gentleman, and a true warrior for justice. He will be sorely missed.”

De Kock was appointed as Deputy NDPP by President Cyril Ramaphosa in June 2020 – a position he held until his death.

“He joined the NPA ExCo team to contribute to the rebuilding of the NPA after years of state capture. Prior to being appointed DNDPP, he was Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) in the Western Cape— the first black man appointed to the position of DPP in South Africa. 

“As DNDPP responsible for the National Prosecutions Service, he led the core function of the NPA which is prosecutions, and supervised DPPs from all the Divisions.

“[He also] led the law enforcement agencies on the FATF, focusing our collective efforts and commitment to get the country to exit grey listing and dedicated his last months to this work,” the NPA said. – SAnews.gov.za