By Takudziridzwa Nyama
The National Prosecuting Authority of South Africa (NPASA) is mourning the loss of Deputy National Director of Prosecutions (DNDPP) Adv. Rodney De Kock, who passed away on January 20, 2025, after a battle with brain cancer.
He was diagnosed in December 2024.
Adv De Kock assumed the position of DNDPP on 01 June 2020. He joined the NPA ExCo team to contribute to the rebuilding of the NPA after years of state capture.
Prior to being appointed DNDPP, he was Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) in the Western Cape- the first black man appointed to the position of DPP in South Africa.
Before that, as detailed in the statement released by the family, Adv De Kock ran a successful law practice in Cape Town, focusing on human rights and civil and criminal litigation. He devoted his life to fighting for justice and defending the democratic order.
As DNDPP responsible for the National Prosecutions Service, he led the core function of the NPA which is prosecutions, and supervised DPPs from all the Divisions.
“The NPA leadership, NPA staff and colleagues in the criminal justice system will miss his passion for justice and the rule of law in this country. DK, as we fondly called him, was a pillar of strength in the NPA. Amongst many other things, he led the law enforcement agencies on the FATF, focusing our collective efforts and commitment to get the country to exit grey listing and dedicated his last months to this work, ” said the Prosecuting Authority.
The NDPP also said “This is a huge loss for the NPA and the country. He was a solid lawyer, a gentleman, and a true warrior for justice. He will be sorely missed,” the statement by the NPA added.
Details relating to Adv De Kock’s memorial service and funeral arrangements will be communicated by his family spokesperson in due course.