The family of Collins Khosa is suing the SANDF for R10m over his killing. Family lawyer Wikus Steyl reportedly confirmed on Friday that the family was taking legal action following a report implicating four SANDF soldiers, notes News24.

Steyl said the family was suffering financially and emotionally after Khosa's death, which occurred at his Alexandra home on 10 April.

‘I can confirm that we are suing for R10m. Our summons has been finalised and we are waiting for it to be issued,’ said Steyl.

Khosa was allegedly assaulted by members of the SANDF on Good Friday, during the nationwide lockdown. According to court papers, they kicked and punched Khosa, holding his hands behind his back while they choked and beat him, slammed him against the wall, and used the butt of a machine gun to hit him.

He died soon after of blunt force trauma to the head.

Steyl applauded the investigation led by the SANDF's military ombudsman, saying it was open and factual.

He said Khosa's family, and others who were present when he was killed, were interviewed.

‘They were all consulted during the investigation. It was a proper investigation.’

Steyl also said a criminal case, separately investigated by Ipid, the police watchdog, was still ongoing.

‘They are trying to retrieve videos of the entire action from witnesses. We know that some phones were taken away by soldiers at the time and other people were forced to delete their videos by the army,’ said Steyl.

Defence Minister Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula told Parliament last week the ombudsman found that the four soldiers' conduct was improper, irregular and in contravention of the code of conduct, operational order and rules of engagement.

The four soldiers are on leave with full pay, pending the finalisation of the criminal investigation.

Full News24 report