Foundation to investigate author’s death

The Human Rights Foundation (HRF) has launched an independent investigation into the allegations contained in the book The Lost Boys of Bird Island, as well as into the circumstances surrounding co-author Mark Minnie’s death.

Just a week after the book was released earlier this month, Minnie was found dead with a gunshot wound to his head at a friend’s farm in Theescombe in Port Elizabeth. A suicide note was also dis- covered at the property.

The book, which details high-ranking former National Party officials allegedly being part of a paedophile ring involving Cabinet ministers and businesspeople in the late 1980s, is a collaboration between journalist Chris Steyn and Minnie.

At a memorial service in Port Elizabeth yesterday, Steyn told reporters that all Minnie ever wanted was a full probe into the allegations contained in the book.

“All Mark ever wanted was a proper investigation and, hopefully, justice for the victims,” she said.

Steyn said the primary concern was eventual justice for the victims and although Minnie’s voice was now gone, she would continue to be the voice of the victims.

Steyn said she was prepared to accept the finding that Minnie had taken his own life.

However, she believed that there were events in the days leading up to his death that coerced him.

“I do not believe he would have done that because he necessarily feared for his own life. I believe that he had a very good reason to do it, possibly to protect other people,” said Steyn.

Speaking at the memorial service, Minnie’s son, Mark Minnie Jnr, said he hoped in his father’s last moments he knew how much he was loved and respected. – ANA