Embargo: Immediate Release
Enquiries: Martus de Wet
Tel: (032) 481 5550
Cell: 072 447 3428

Doctors For Life International (DFL) is pleased with the conviction of illegal abortions by the Rose Clinic Staff in Durban. This is believed to be the first prosecution in South Africa under the 1996 Choice of Termination of Pregnancy Act.

The police investigation and subsequent prosecution arose out of information provided by DFL. This followed the High Court action filed by Crystal Osler and DFL against the clinic. Crystal, at the age of 18, was the victim of an illegal abortion at this clinic. She consequently gave birth to a baby boy at 28 weeks of pregnancy, as certified by the State pathologist. Her case is to be heard later this year.

In a plea bargain, Rose Clinic director, Dr Nandlall and his staff pleaded guilty to approximately 5800 charges relating to illegal abortions. They have been charged with more than 24 000 charges, including culpable homicide, corruption, and contravention of various other Acts. The prosecution agreed to a ten year suspended sentence and a R600 000 fine for Dr Nandlall. Other staff received suspended five year sentences and also was fined.

‘Doctors for Life International’ represents more than 1000 medical doctors and specialists, three-quarters of who practice in South Africa. DFL was founded as a South African organisation in 1991 and has spread across the globe. DFL is involved in several community projects including orphan care, the care of terminal AIDS patients, malaria treatment and the care of abused women.

For more information, go to: www.doctorsforlifeinternational.com