The Correctional Supervision and Parole Board has approved the release of convicted murderer Donovan Moodley on parole.

The Witness reports that Moodley abducted and killed university student Leigh Matthews in 2004 in Johannesburg.

While his case still needs to be considered by the National Council for Correctional Services (NCCS) and, ultimately, Correctional Services Minister Pieter Groenewald, this brings Moodley a step closer to freedom.

Moodley was denied parole in 2022 and again in 2023.

Moodley abducted 21-year-old Matthews from outside Bond University in Morningside, Sandton, on July 9, 2004, and demanded a ransom from her parents for her safe return.

In 2023, Caxton Network News reported that Matthews was murdered after her family paid the ransom.

Department of Correctional Services spokesperson Singabakho Nxumalo says the parole process for offenders serving life sentences follows several distinct phases.

“The matter is first assessed by the case management committee, followed by the Correctional Supervision and Parole Board.

“Thereafter, recommendations are referred to the NCCS, before the final decision, [which] rests with the minister of Correctional Services.”

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