Gardee family files R19 million lawsuit against SAPS

The Gardee family is taking legal action against the South African Police Service and the state, seeking R19 million in damages linked to the death of Hillary Gardee.

The move has brought attention to one of the most painful crime cases to grip the country, with the family saying the harm went beyond grief and loss. Their claim centres on the allegation that a vehicle impounded by police was unlawfully released from SAPS custody and later used in the kidnapping and murder of Hillary Gardee.

Family points to alleged police lapse

According to the family’s notice of intention to sue, former police officer Jacob Chego is accused of fraudulently releasing the BMW from custody while it was still under police control. The vehicle was then allegedly handed back to murder suspect Rassie Nkuna, who is said to have used it in the crime.

A corrupt @SAPoliceService member fraudulently released from SAPS13 a vehicle impounded from Rassie & gave it back to Rassie who went on to murder 6 people including Hillary…..It is not a police vehicle but a vehicle that was in custody of the police & corruplty released. It… https://t.co/vstWK9KOow

Godrich Gardee (@GardeeGodrich) July 1, 2026

The family argues that the vehicle, once released, became an instrument in the killing. That claim adds a serious twist to a case that has already shaken public confidence.

For many South Africans, the allegation cuts deep because it touches on a broader concern that keeps resurfacing in crime cases, whether systems meant to protect the public are being properly managed.

That frustration is likely to grow as more details emerge. The case also carries emotional weight because it comes against the backdrop of South Africa’s ongoing struggle with violent crime and the pain carried by families who are often left to fight for answers long after the headlines fade.

Why this case matters

This is not only about compensation, but responsibility, trust and whether the state can be held liable when alleged misconduct inside its own ranks becomes part of a deadly chain of events.

For now, the Gardee family’s claim raises a difficult question that many will be watching closely: how does a vehicle leave police custody and end up linked to a murder investigation?