ROOM 1008
DATE OF INCIDENT
15 February 1977
THE STRUGGLE FOR JUSTICE
46 years
CRIME
Alleged torture and murder in detention.
“Brother Lasch, inform mom and my other brothers that the police are going to push me from the 10th floor and I am bidding you goodbye, forever”.
These were the words written on the white lining of Matthew’s Mabelane’s dark green and bloodied Lee branded trousers. Fearing for his life he wrote this message for his family while he was in detention at the notorious John Vorster Square police station in 1977 during the height of apartheid. The suspicious circumstances surrounding what happened to Mabelane have always lingered and now the family want closure and answers as to who is responsible for their son, uncle and brother’s unexplained death.
“It’s 46 years later, when I think of my brother my heart really bleeds because my parents passed on without any closure to his death and until today we are still looking to get closure. We are just wishing that the whole story of my brother’s death comes to an end and we can reach closure”.
Steve Mabelane
“For me personally I felt lost because I was so close to my brother Matthews, I was in so much pain. If I had the power to also kill the one who actually killed my brother I would definitely do that”.
Steve Mabelane
Promo
Feedback
Dear Enver Samuel,
I am writing to express my heartfelt gratitude for the opportunity to screen your compelling film, “Truth be Told: Room 1008.” As Hope Mareka, it was an honor to share your powerful narrative with our community. Your dedication to shedding light on important historical events and marginalized stories is truly commendable.
The impact of your film was profound, sparking meaningful discussions and reflections among our audience. Your ability to capture the essence of untold stories and bring them to life through your work is both inspiring and necessary in today’s world.
Thank you once again for entrusting us with your film and for your commitment to storytelling that educates, enlightens, and empowers. We look forward to future collaborations and the opportunity to continue sharing stories that resonate deeply with our community.
Warm regards,
Hope Mareka
Anonymous
“As the story unfolded i just felt that i connected to the story
emotionally, mentally and physically. Your pain is my pain. So many
people have passed on without knowing the truth of what happened at room
1008 but one day it will come out”
TRUTH BE TOLD 