South Africa: 4 cops granted bail for apartheid-era killing

JOHANNESBURG – A South African court has granted bail to four former policemen who are charged with murdering an anti-apartheid activist in 1983.

National Prosecuting Authority spokesman Luvuyo Mfaku said Friday the men were granted bail of nearly $320 each on condition that they do not interfere with witnesses. Their next court appearance is March 29.

Prosecutors say the four were members of the apartheid-era security forces linked to the torture and disappearance of 23-year-old Nokuthula Simelane. Her body has not been found.

Prosecutors say three of the men applied for amnesty to South Africa's Truth and Reconciliation Commission for Simelane's kidnapping but not for her murder. The commission recommended legal action in 2002.

Mfaku said the case was delayed by years of bureaucracy and a lack of resources.