Family still waits for justice two years after Syd Syrett’s death

July 11 marked the second anniversary of the death of Syd Syrett following an attack at his home in Van Riebeeck Park.

Syrett died in hospital after a house robbery on July 6.

Five suspects reportedly overpowered Syrett and assaulted him.

His daughter Claire said that despite numerous court appearances and promises of investigation, the SAPS has failed to provide closure to her grieving family.

ALSO READ: Beloved Van Riebeeck Park man dies after attack at home

“As we commemorate the second anniversary of my dad’s attack, it’s pretty horrifying to know that SAPS has absolutely no consideration whatsoever that a murderer and his accomplices are just wandering around our neighbourhood waiting for their next victim,” said Claire.

According to Claire, the chief prosecutor asked to speak to the family directly about the case earlier this year.

She said the case was provisionally withdrawn when they attended court on January 31.

“They noted that we did not have sufficient evidence to press forward with a murder conviction and the suggestion was made that the charges be dropped to simple possession charges, which was not what we wanted to hear,” said Claire.

“However, there were so many elements of the investigation still open in our view, so we discussed other options instead.

“Ultimately, it was decided that the matter would be dropped from the roll to allow SAPS more time to investigate without the constant need to attend court.

ALSO READ: Family of Van Riebeeck Park man who died after home invasion laments court delays

“This was particularly important as it was noted that the investigation was incomplete and that some documents and information were now missing from our docket,” added Claire.

She said they were told that dropping the case meant that the charges would all be dropped pending additional evidence.

Essentially, should additional evidence be found, the case would be reopened.

“Obviously if no additional evidence was found, then nothing further will happen. While I was happy with the initial decision, it soon became clear that this decision allowed SAPS to completely ignore our case and leave the docket sitting with the prosecutor.

“I was forced a couple of months ago to raise a second complaint against the officers who were supposed to be investigating.

ALSO READ: Update: three arrested in connection with Van Riebeeck Park murder

“My complaint was eventually passed to a different officer who has no affiliations with the original investigation, and I met with him and his team about a month ago,” added Claire.

The Kempton Express sent an inquiry to the NPA on July 15, requesting for comment by July 19. At the time of going to print no comment was received.