CHAPTER SUMMARIES PART FOUR:
WEAPONISATION OF SAPS & THE MEDIA BY MEDIA24

Chapter Summaries Index – Overview of Key Campaign Pages

This summary outlines the key chapters featured throughout the website—each entry linking to a full page documenting a specific aspect of the criminal campaign.

CHAPTER SUMMARIES, CHAPTER MENU AND SUBJECT INDEX

THE PURPOSE & USE OF THE ARTICLES: HOW MEDIA24 WAS USED TO MANUFACTURE A FALSE NARRATIVE

This chapter exposes how News24, Netwerk24, and Rapport were not simply negligent in their reporting but actively served as tools in a coordinated strategy to construct a false public perception, bypass legal standards, and reinforce a fabricated criminal case against me. While there is no conclusive evidence that Media24 knowingly conspired with my adversaries, the way in which their publications were timed, framed, and utilized shows that they became an essential part of the operation to engineer my downfall.

The articles were not written to report facts—they were created to serve a specific legal and financial agenda. Once published, they were systematically used to achieve objectives that my adversaries could not accomplish through legal channels.

They compensated for the total lack of evidence in the legal cases.
They created an illusion of credibility for demonstrably false claims.
They became a self-reinforcing tool, used in court as “independent evidence.”
They manipulated public perception to obscure the criminal actions of my accusers.

This chapter presents a fully documented breakdown of how Media24’s reporting was not journalism—it was a strategic weapon used to launder false allegations into perceived truth.

The Role Of The Articles: A Means To Circumvent Legal Scrutiny

By December 2022, the Consortium, led by Keith and Inge Broad, Wouter de Swardt, and others, faced a major problem:

Their legal cases against me had collapsed under scrutiny.
Every attempt to introduce fabricated claims in court had been rejected.
There was no admissible evidence against me—only false accusations.

To solve this problem, they pivoted to the media, targeting News24, Netwerk24, and Rapport, publications that WDS knew he could influence.

Courts demand evidence.
Journalistic integrity also demands verification.
But by finding a compliant media outlet, they were able to avoid both.

The media became an alternative forum, where accusations could be framed as fact without being tested. This allowed them to present their false claims as "independent" findings, circumventing judicial scrutiny.

Once the articles were published, the Consortium weaponized them in multiple ways:

As a basis for legal arguments, pretending the articles were independent sources rather than pre-orchestrated narratives.
As a way to pressure SAPS (South African Police Service) into further action by creating the illusion of widespread public outcry.
As a means of reinforcing their position in court, citing media coverage as validation.

Establishing False Credibility Through Media Endorsement

The media’s involvement gave legitimacy to allegations that had been rejected in court.
False accusations, when published in a major newspaper, took on an air of credibility.
The media’s influence made it appear as though there were multiple independent sources confirming the same claims—when in reality, they all stemmed from the same small group of individuals.

By laundering their false claims through the media, the Consortium ensured that:

Courts, police, and the public would be influenced before I had any chance to challenge the accusations.
The accusations would appear to come from multiple sources rather than one coordinated effort.
The sheer volume of articles would make it difficult for anyone to question the narrative.

The Specific Articles And Their Role In The Conspiracy

Keith Broad’s December 13, 2022, court application provides clear evidence of how these articles were used. His affidavit explicitly references the media coverage, presenting it as if it were an independent confirmation of his allegations—when in fact, it was a direct product of his own efforts and those of Wouter De Swardt.

He cited my December arrest without admitting that he was directly responsible for orchestrating it.
He referenced News24 and IOL articles but omitted the fact that their sources were his own co-conspirators.
He used the articles to justify his legal manoeuvres while hiding his own involvement.

This is direct proof that the media was not reporting on events as they happened but was instead being used as an active tool to shape legal and financial outcomes.

The Selective Omission Of Exculpatory Facts

One of the most damning aspects of the media’s role was the deliberate omission of critical facts that would have dismantled the false narrative.

They failed to report that multiple cases against me had already been dismissed due to lack of evidence.
They ignored the fact that Keith and Inge Broad, Wouter De Swardt, and their associates were behind every single legal action against me.
They concealed that the charges against me relied on fabricated witness statements and perjury.
They omitted any reference to the illegal evictions and financial theft carried out by the Consortium.

By strategically omitting key facts, the media presented a one-sided, misleading version of events designed to serve a pre-determined conclusion.

The Role Of Anonymous Sources: Hiding Conflicts Of Interest

The media further protected the criminal actions of my accusers by granting anonymity to key figures.

Inge Broad was quoted in multiple articles without being identified as Keith Broad’s wife.
Other landlords were presented as “concerned victims” rather than financial beneficiaries of my removal.
The very people responsible for the arrests, detentions, and fraudulent claims were presented as neutral observers.

By granting anonymity to those with clear financial motives, the media disguised the truth and gave false credibility to accusations that would never have survived in court.

Articles As A Pretext For Further Persecution

These articles were not just about influencing public opinion—they had a direct and devastating impact on my legal situation.

They were used as justification to oppose my bail.
They were introduced in court to reinforce a perception of guilt.
They created a public environment that made it nearly impossible for me to get a fair hearing.

By the time the legal case collapsed, the damage had already been done—the false narrative had been cemented, and the financial and reputational harm was irreversible.

Conclusion: Media24’S Role In A Criminally Engineered Narrative

This chapter proves, beyond any doubt, that the News24, Netwerk24, and Rapport articles were not independent journalism—they were an integral part of a calculated legal and financial strategy.

The articles were designed not to report events but to create a narrative that served specific private interests.
Once published, they were used as a self-reinforcing tool to validate false claims in court.
They played a key role in extending my detention, obstructing my legal defense, and shaping public perception.
Their selective reporting, omissions, and reliance on compromised sources demonstrate a reckless disregard for journalistic integrity.

This chapter serves as a damning indictment of how media institutions can be manipulated to serve private conspiracies—with devastating legal and financial consequences for their targets.

THE ARTICLES: A COORDINATED DEFAMATION CAMPAIGN BY MEDIA24

This chapter presents a detailed analysis of the defamatory articles published across Media24 platforms, including News24, Netwerk24, Rapport, and Die Burger, as well as related coverage from IOL and GroundUp. These articles, which spanned from August 2022 to February 2023, were not independent journalistic investigations but rather a calculated extension of the wider effort to falsely incriminate me.

Over fourteen separate articles were published or republished, often repeating the same falsehoods.
Key individuals behind the accusations—Wouter de Swardt, Keith and Inge Broad—were never identified as having a direct financial interest in my downfall.
The articles were timed to correspond directly with key legal developments in my case, reinforcing false claims in court and public opinion.
Despite extensive evidence disproving their claims, Media24 refused to engage with me or offer a right of reply.

This chapter provides a forensic breakdown of how Media24 and its affiliated publications became complicit in a carefully orchestrated defamation campaign, violating multiple principles of journalistic integrity and inflicting irreparable damage to my reputation, freedom, and financial standing.

The Scale Of The Misinformation: More Than Just Six Articles

While initial references suggested six primary articles, the true reach of the defamation campaign was far greater.

Many articles published on Netwerk24 were also printed in Rapport, often in expanded versions to accommodate print media constraints.
Several articles were syndicated across different platforms, ensuring maximum repetition and visibility of the false claims.
We estimate at least fourteen instances where defamatory content was published or republished across Media24 titles.

This was not an isolated misreporting incident—it was a sustained campaign of character assassination, designed to overwhelm the truth through sheer volume and repetition.

Key Articles And Their Role In The Defamation Campaign

The following are some of the most damaging and widely circulated false articles published by Media24 and affiliated platforms:

"A Briton who has allegedly been renting out guesthouses that do not belong to him... has finally been arrested while hiding in the Upper Cape."

Published: 21 Aug 2022
Author: Julian Jansen (Netwerk24 & Rapport)

Falsehoods: Alleged that I was a fugitive, "hiding" from authorities, despite clear evidence that I was actively engaging with legal processes.

"Briton who allegedly defrauded people with accommodation, gets bail."

Published: 23 Aug 2022
Author: Ané Van Zyl (Netwerk24)

Falsehoods: Claimed I defrauded guests, despite the fact that refund processes were actively obstructed by the complainants themselves to manufacture claims against me.

"Brit arrested again after bail of R30,000 for the same rental scam."
Published: 17 Dec 2022
Author: M. De Wee (Netwerk24 & Rapport)

Falsehoods: Presented my second unlawful arrest as a continuation of a fraud scheme, rather than a deliberate legal manoeuvre to keep me in detention after the first case collapsed.

"Second arrest for Cape Town luxury accommodation 'scammer' suspected of pocketing millions."

Published: 14 Jan 2023
Author: Carin Smith (News24)
Falsehoods: The article reinforced the idea that I ran a long-term fraudulent scheme, ignoring documented proof that my business was legitimate and my lease agreements were lawful.

"I almost got scammed by Darren Russell."
Published: 20 Jan 2023
Author: V. Pillay (Iol & Soeknet)

Falsehoods: Heavily relied on previous Media24 articles rather than independent research, repeating defamatory claims that had already been disproven.

The above articles were presented as "objective reporting" but were, in reality, part of a coordinated narrative designed to establish false credibility for the criminal case against me.
They were repeatedly used in legal proceedings as "evidence," despite the fact that they were themselves based on fabrications and manipulated accounts.

Media24’S Systematic Breach Of The South African Press Code

These articles represent severe breaches of journalistic ethics under the South African Press Code, specifically:

Accuracy, Truthfulness, And Balance (Sections 1.1 & 1.3)
- The articles were demonstrably false, presenting allegations as fact without verification.

Source Verification (Section 1.7)
- Media24 relied almost exclusively on WDS and Keith Broad—both of whom had a direct financial interest in the false narrative.

Right Of Reply (Section 1.8)
- I was never contacted before or after publication to provide a counter-narrative or factual corrections.

Use Of Anonymous Sources (Section 1.11)
- Several articles relied on undisclosed sources with clear conflicts of interest, falsely presenting them as neutral.

Dignity And Reputation (Section 3.3)
- The articles were not only factually incorrect but deeply defamatory, portraying me as a habitual criminal with no basis in truth.

Independence And Conflicts Of Interest (Section 2.1)
- The close relationship between Media24 and WDS raises serious concerns about the independence of the reporting.

Sensationalist Headlines (Section 3.5)
- Each article was framed with an exaggerated, false, and misleading headline, reinforcing the damage.

Deliberate Amplification Of Misinformation

Media24’s coverage did not evolve as new evidence emerged—it only escalated, suggesting a deliberate refusal to correct false reporting.

The Impact Of This Coordinated Defamation

The articles directly influenced legal decisions, reinforcing false perceptions that justified my prolonged detention.
They led to the loss of critical business relationships, as potential partners, investors, and clients refused to engage with me due to the stigma attached to these false allegations.
The damage to my personal and professional reputation was irreversible, affecting my ability to work, travel, or secure financial stability.
Even after the collapse of the legal case, these articles continue to dominate search results, ensuring that the false narrative persists indefinitely.

Conclusion: Media24’S Role In Enabling A Legal And Financial Hit Job

This chapter establishes beyond any doubt that Media24 played a critical role in legitimizing false allegations against me. Their reporting was not an accidental misinterpretation—it was a calculated extension of a premeditated scheme to weaponize the criminal justice system against me.

The timing, sources, and content of these articles prove that they were not neutral journalism but an integral part of a legal and financial strategy to destroy me.
Their refusal to engage with exculpatory evidence or grant a right of reply reveals a reckless disregard for ethical journalism.
The persistent and systematic nature of these defamatory reports confirms that this was not just poor reporting—it was complicity in a premeditated character assassination.

ANALYSIS OF THE ARTICLES: HOW MEDIA24 PUBLISHED A FABRICATED NARRATIVE TO LEGITIMIZE A CONSPIRACY

The Media24 articles did not merely misreport facts; they actively distorted reality, turning demonstrably false allegations into an accepted public narrative. This chapter conducts a detailed analysis of the misleading, factually incorrect, and fabricated statements published across multiple articles, demonstrating how News24, Netwerk24, and Rapport abandoned journalistic integrity to promote a pre-determined agenda that aligned exactly with the false allegations of Wouter de Swardt, his clients, and the corrupt officials working alongside him.

At the core of this analysis lies a clear, undeniable pattern:

The articles presented unverified allegations as fact, omitting all exculpatory evidence.
They mirrored, almost word for word, the claims made by Wouter De Swardt and his clients, without any independent verification.
False statements published by Media24 directly contradicted available evidence, including court documents, police dockets, and financial records.
Despite my multiple attempts to provide corrections, evidence, and counter-statements, Media24 refused to engage, let alone rectify their misreporting.
A forensic comparison shows at least 119 false or misleading statements, with over 200 critical facts deliberately omitted.

How Media24 Became An Extension Of De Swardt’S Campaign

Instead of investigating, questioning, or verifying claims, Media24 became a willing tool of Wouter De Swardt’s operation. The articles were not written based on fact-finding, independent sources, or journalistic research—they were written to mirror and reinforce Wouter De Swardt’s fraudulent narrative.

The evidence in this chapter shows how the articles:

Repeated Wouter De Swardt’s false claims verbatim, despite them having no legal basis.
Consistently omitted critical facts—including court rulings in my favour, procedural violations, perjury committed by SAPS officers, and the dismissal of charges.
Framed allegations in a way that deliberately misled readers, using definitive language (“Russell scammed R34 million”) instead of qualifiers (“allegedly,” “according to sources”).
Failed to mention that the landlords had financially benefitted from my lease agreements.
Ignored the blatant conflict of interest: Wouter De Swardt was not an independent investigator, but a hired operative acting directly on behalf of the landlords.

Key Falsehoods & How They Contradict Evidence

This chapter systematically dissects each major claim made in the articles, comparing them to documented facts. It includes:

The false allegation that I rented properties without the owners’ permission – When in fact, lease agreements, sworn affidavits, and even Keith Broad’s own managing agent’s statement to the court confirm that the landlords were fully aware of and consented to the rental arrangements.
The fabricated claim that I failed to pay rent or was a “rogue tenant” – When financial records show over R4.8 million in rent and deposits paid, and the landlords themselves actively sabotaged revenue streams to engineer arrears they could then weaponize in eviction proceedings.
The lie that I caused damage to properties – Contradicted by 110,000 photos documenting my extensive renovations and the fact that the landlords later listed the properties for sale using my upgrades as key selling points.
The outright misreporting of my arrests – Media24 falsely reported that my August and December arrests were for fraud, when fraud was never a charge in either arrest. Court records show the August arrest was for a bogus “breaking and entering” charge into my own home, while the December arrest was engineered to sabotage legal proceedings and allow the landlords to illegally reclaim properties.
The manipulated narrative around my visa status – The articles falsely implied that I had “overstayed” or engaged in immigration fraud, when in reality, Home Affairs records show automatic visa extensions due to COVID, and my passport had been stolen by the very individuals making these accusations.
The fraudulent portrayal of “victims” – No “victim” allegations were ever part of the criminal case, and not a single victim presented any claim in civil court. The only claims of financial harm came from the same individuals orchestrating my removal—those who had profited immensely from my presence but needed me out to capitalize fully on my investment.
How Media24 manufactured the R34 million “fraud” figure – No bank records, financial transactions, or actual losses support this number. It was purely a fabricated estimate designed to give credibility to a fraudulent case.

The Press Code Violations & The Legal Ramifications

Under South Africa’s Press Code, journalists have a duty to report truthfully, fairly, and with due diligence. This analysis demonstrates that Media24 systematically violated the following Press Code provisions:

[1.1] The duty to verify facts before publication – Not a single major claim was independently verified. The articles mirrored a single-source narrative without cross-checking facts or seeking counter statements.
[1.7] The prohibition against presenting allegations as facts – The articles repeatedly asserted falsehoods as definitive truths, misleading the public and damaging my reputation irreparably.
[1.8] The right to reply – Media24 refused to engage with any counterevidence provided, failing to uphold their responsibility to ensure fair representation.
[6.0] The obligation to avoid misleading headlines – Sensationalist headlines such as “Luxury Scammer Arrested Again” not only misrepresented the facts but falsely suggested that courts had already ruled against me when no conviction had ever been secured.
[3.3] The duty to provide balanced reporting – The articles systematically ignored exonerating evidence, failed to investigate, and refused to acknowledge factual contradictions, making their reporting inherently biased.

The Consequences Of This Journalistic Failure

Media24’s reckless reporting had real-world consequences:

It granted credibility to false allegations, which in turn justified my unlawful arrests and detentions.
It allowed corrupt SAPS (South African Police Service) officials and landlords to continue illegal evictions and financial theft without scrutiny.
It manipulated public perception, making fair legal proceedings nearly impossible by prejudicing both the courts and the general public against me.
It caused severe financial, reputational, and emotional harm by misrepresenting my character, business, and legal situation.

Despite overwhelming evidence disproving their claims, Media24 has never corrected or retracted their false reporting. Instead, they have allowed these fabricated allegations to remain publicly available, reinforcing an entirely false perception of the events.

Conclusion: Deliberate Smear Campaign Disguised As Journalism

This analysis proves that Media24’s reporting was not simply biased or negligent—it was a deliberate effort to launder a fraudulent narrative into public legitimacy. The articles were constructed to:

Protect the real perpetrators of corruption.
Provide cover for illegal property seizures.
Shield corrupt SAPS (South African Police Service) officers from accountability.
Destroy my ability to defend myself in legal proceedings.

By allowing a private investigator with vested interests to dictate their coverage, Media24 ceased to function as a legitimate news outlet and instead became an instrument of fraud and defamation.

This chapter provides the full breakdown of each false claim, the corresponding factual rebuttals, and documentary evidence exposing the extent of Media24’s journalistic malpractice. The evidence is not speculative—it is drawn from legal filings, financial records, sworn affidavits, and primary documents that prove beyond any doubt that these articles were not just inaccurate, but actively malicious.

CRIMINAL COMPLICITY OF MEDIA24 & NEWS24: A CASE STUDY IN DELIBERATE MEDIA MANIPULATION

The Weaponization Of The Press To Facilitate Criminal Objectives

This chapter exposes how Media24 and its subsidiary, News24, played an active role in a campaign of misinformation and reputational destruction, facilitating the unlawful acts committed against me. The media’s involvement was not incidental—it was a strategic and deliberate collaboration that provided the necessary public legitimacy and cover for a range of criminal actions, including illegal arrests, fabricated allegations, and the unlawful seizure of properties.

Media24 and News24 abandoned any pretence of journalistic integrity in favour of publishing sensationalized, misleading, and outright false articles, many of which were demonstrably orchestrated in coordination with the individuals behind the conspiracy. These articles were not merely biased reporting—they were pivotal tools used to justify unlawful police actions and influence public perception, creating an artificial basis for fabricated charges.

This chapter systematically examines how Media24 and News24 actively participated in the orchestration of this campaign, detailing:

How the articles were coordinated with unlawful police actions, proving intentional complicity rather than independent reporting.
The deliberate use of false information—despite clear evidence to the contrary.
The suppression of exculpatory facts and refusal to engage with any response that contradicted the predetermined narrative.
Direct evidence linking News24’s publications to their sources within the corrupt SAPS (South African Police Service) network and the consortium responsible for these acts.

A Coordinated Campaign Of Disinformation

The campaign against me was not a one-off instance of poor journalism—it was a sustained, methodical, and orchestrated effort to destroy my credibility, facilitate unlawful legal actions, and prevent any public scrutiny of the real crimes being committed by those behind this operation.

Key evidence includes:

A timeline of articles published in conjunction with police actions, showing an indisputable link between SAPS operations and News24’s coverage.
Journalistic sources with direct ties to the corrupt investigators involved in my case.
News24’s refusal to correct false information, retract demonstrably untrue claims, or acknowledge documented evidence that contradicted their reporting.
The reliance on “anonymous sources” while simultaneously ignoring publicly available legal filings that disproved their allegations.

This chapter breaks down six specific articles that formed the backbone of the campaign, exposing how each was used as a tool to mislead the public, influence legal proceedings, and facilitate the unlawful actions against me.

The Legal Implications: Complicity In Criminal Conduct

The conduct of Media24 and News24 does not merely constitute unethical journalism—it meets the legal threshold for complicity in multiple criminal offences, including:

Defamation and Deliberate Publication of False Information – False reporting was not only irresponsible but was done with clear intent to harm and facilitate criminal actions.
Obstruction of Justice – The articles were designed to influence legal proceedings, pressure judicial authorities, and undermine my right to a fair trial.
Collusion with Criminal Actors – Evidence demonstrates direct coordination between journalists, corrupt law enforcement officers, and the consortium members, implicating News24 in conspiracy to pervert the course of justice.
Violation of Press Ethics and Potential Criminal Defamation – The failure to verify information, provide balanced reporting, or allow rebuttals constitutes a wilful breach of journalistic integrity with potential legal ramifications.

This chapter does not rely on subjective opinion—it is built entirely on documented evidence, timelines, and direct quotes from communications between those involved.

The Broader Implications: Media As An Instrument Of State And Corporate Corruption

The case against Media24 and News24 extends beyond my individual experience. It serves as a case study in how media organizations, when co-opted by corrupt state actors and private interests, can be weaponized to destroy lives, justify unlawful police actions, and silence opposition.

This was not independent journalism—it was a premeditated smear campaign carried out on behalf of corrupt law enforcement and private entities with vested financial interests.
The refusal to investigate the real crimes—the unlawful seizures, fabricated charges, and procedural abuses—further demonstrates Media24’s complicity.
By granting legitimacy to provably false allegations, News24 functioned as an accessory to the crimes carried out by the consortium and corrupt SAPS (South African Police Service) officers.

Conclusion: An Unprecedented Abuse Of Media Power

This chapter presents the full extent of Media24 and News24’s criminal complicity, detailing their role in the unlawful actions taken against me. The evidence makes it clear:

The articles were timed and structured to provide cover for unlawful arrests and asset seizures.
The reporting ignored exculpatory evidence and actively worked to suppress facts that contradicted the predetermined narrative.
Journalists acted in concert with corrupt law enforcement and private entities, violating not just ethical standards but also potential criminal statutes.

This is not an abstract discussion on media ethics—it is a legal case study in how the press was used as an active tool in a conspiracy to commit unlawful acts. The implications extend beyond my case, demonstrating the dangers of unchecked media power when wielded in service of corrupt interests.

THE "INGE" BROAD NEWS24 INTERVIEW: FABRICATIONS, OMISSIONS & INTENTIONAL MISDIRECTION WITH PURPOSE

The January 14, 2022, News24 article featuring Inge Broad is a case study in deliberate misrepresentation, calculated omission, and outright fabrication. Her statements, made under the guise of an aggrieved landlord, are systematically dismantled in this chapter using documentary evidence, legal records, financial transactions, and verified communications.

The central premise of her narrative is demonstrably false: the claim that she and her husband, Keith Broad, were victims of a fraudulent tenant who damaged their property, failed to pay rent, and engaged in deception. The reality, backed by overwhelming evidence, proves the opposite. Their entire campaign against me was founded on falsehoods, carefully crafted to disguise their true motivation—to unlawfully regain possession of the property, enriched by my substantial financial investment, while circumventing the legal system.

A Lease Agreement Built On Deception

The five-year lease agreement was not my proposal—it originated from Keith Broad. His intent was never to honour it but to lure me into spending millions on property renovations under the false pretence of long-term tenancy.

At the time of my leasing the property:

The Broad family had crippling personal debts, requiring them to sell the house at an inflated price.
The property was valued at R18 million.
It was already listed for sale at R24 million, despite not being worth that sum.
Renovations were essential to achieving a higher sale price, but they lacked the capital.

Their solution? Induce a tenant into refurbishing the property at their own expense and then illegally take back possession before the lease duration ended. Evidence from WhatsApp messages, emails, and sworn affidavits proves that Keith Broad actively negotiated the lease with full knowledge and consent of the plan to rent the property short-term to recover investment costs.

Fabricated Claims Of “Tenant Damage”

Once the renovations were completed, the Broads immediately sought to remove me, launching an endless cycle of illegal eviction attempts. This campaign culminated in a coordinated effort with Wouter de Swardt and corrupt SAPS (South African Police Service) officers to fabricate legal grounds for my arrest, thereby achieving an illegal eviction disguised as a criminal matter.

In her News24 interview, Inge Broad falsely claims:

That I damaged the property.
That I failed to pay rent or utilities.
That they were “financially ruined” by my actions.

These claims are blatantly contradicted by:

Before-and-after photographs, clearly showing extensive property improvements.
Signed agreements acknowledging the scope of the renovations.
Quarterly rent payments of over R280,000, always paid in advance.
Utility payment records proving I was covering the costs.
Evidence of the Broads actively attempting to block rental income—ensuring financial difficulty, then citing it as a justification for eviction.

Blocking Rental Income To Engineer A False Narrative

Perhaps the most damning admission in her interview is that she and Keith Broad actively worked to have our rental listings removed. This was done repeatedly across multiple platforms, specifically to ensure financial distress and to manufacture rent arrears. This contradicts their claim that they were merely trying to remove a bad tenant. In reality:

They orchestrated circumstances that would prevent rental income, then used the resulting financial difficulty as a weapon.
They knew I was dependent on rental income to recoup investment yet deliberately sabotaged it.
Their own statements to News24 inadvertently confirm a concerted campaign to fabricate a basis for eviction.

The Intentional Creation Of “Victims”

One of the most insidious aspects of this case is that the Broads intentionally engineered a situation in which guests arriving at the property would find themselves stranded. By failing to inform Booking.com that they had taken back the property and preventing me from doing so while I was detained, they created a false narrative of fraud.

This was not accidental:

Guests arrived expecting to check into a property they had booked, only to find it was no longer available.
The Broads intentionally withheld this information from Booking.com, ensuring maximum disruption.
Rather than allowing refunds or rescheduling, they manipulated guests into filing criminal complaints—knowing full well that the issue was one they had created.
Despite orchestrating the circumstances, they falsely portrayed these guests as “fraud victims” to bolster the criminal case against me.

This chapter documents every instance of manipulation, backed by communications, guest correspondence, and platform records.

The High Court Order And The December Arrest

By December, the Broads had been legally barred from the property under an interdict, preventing them from unlawful occupation. However:

Following my illegal arrest, they immediately reoccupied the house.
They listed it for sale at R31 million—despite no legal right to do so.
They ignored the High Court ruling and leveraged my imprisonment to solidify their unlawful possession.

They refused to acknowledge my investment or the legally binding nature of the lease.

Conclusion: A Case Of Calculated Fraud

The News24 interview is not just misleading—it is an intentional act of deception, designed to legitimize criminal acts and mislead the public. This chapter methodically deconstructs every claim made by Inge Broad, using:

Leased property records showing full transparency in the rental agreement.
High Court rulings proving unlawful evictions and reoccupation.
Financial transactions refuting rent arrears claims.
WhatsApp and email communications demonstrating their prior knowledge and full consent.
Platform records proving their intentional withholding of information from guests.

This analysis irrefutably demonstrates that their statements to News24 were part of a broader strategy to weaponize the legal system, manipulate the media, and unlawfully seize a multimillion-rand asset.

LANDLORD LIES & THE FINANCIAL MOTIVE EXPOSED: A FORENSIC BREAKDOWN OF THE EVIDENCE

This chapter systematically dismantles the falsehoods spread by the landlords and their co-conspirators by presenting undisputed, data-backed proof of the financial benefits they gained through their fraudulent campaign.

It exposes the blatant contradictions in their claims—particularly their insistence that they suffered financial losses—by demonstrating that their rental incomes, property values, and overall financial positions improved exponentially as a direct result of my involvement.

The financial evidence in this chapter proves beyond all doubt that their motivation was purely financial. While they insisted publicly that this was about "damage," "rent arrears," or "bad tenants," their own rental listings, property sales valuations, and occupancy rates show that the properties became exponentially more profitable after they took them back.

The landlords could not have unlocked these financial benefits while I was still in possession of the properties under a valid lease agreement, which is why they fabricated arrears claims, engaged in fraudulent eviction attempts disguised as arrests, and weaponized the media to create a false narrative that would justify their unlawful actions.

This is not speculation—this is forensic financial analysis, based entirely on their own publicly available data, property advertisements, and records of transactions that expose their lies and motivations in full.

The False Claims vs. The Proven Reality

The landlords' strategy relied on making a series of entirely false claims, each of which was designed to justify their illegal evictions and financial takeover of the properties.

These included claims that:

They did not consent to short-term lettings.
They did not consent to refurbishment works.
They were unaware of the extent of the refurbishments being undertaken.
Rent and utilities were not paid after the first few months.
The refurbishments constituted "malicious damage" rather than improvements.
They were forced to cover extensive costs to remedy this alleged "damage."
The properties were left in a worse state than when the leases began.
As a result, rental and capital values depreciated, rather than increased.
They made substantial financial losses due to the lease.
Their actions were not financially motivated.

Every single one of these claims is not only false but demonstrably false, based on irrefutable records that they themselves created.

The landlords were able to make these claims in court filings, media statements, and fabricated affidavits because they knew that the real financial records would never be independently examined. This chapter ensures that they are.

The Rental Income Explosion: The Data That Proves the Truth

One of the most powerful pieces of evidence that proves the landlords’ financial motive is the dramatic, unprecedented surge in rental income after they illegally seized the properties.

Rather than rely on estimates, these figures are taken directly from their own rental advertisements and property listings before and after my lease.

Before my tenancy, these properties were generating rental revenues that were comparatively low, due to:

Outdated interiors and lack of modern features.
Low desirability in the luxury rental market due to substandard presentation.
Ineffective marketing and uncompetitive nightly rates.
A limited pool of high-net-worth tenants willing to pay premium rates.
Poor occupancy rates, often below 30%, meaning the properties were empty most of the time.

After I had completed the full-scale transformations—at my own personal cost—these properties became vastly more marketable, profitable, and desirable, allowing the landlords to increase their rental income by over 1,000% in some cases.

Specific Examples of the Rental Income Gains

16 Leirmans Road: Before the lease, the property rented for R80,000 per month. After the illegal eviction, it was listed for R18,000–R27,000 per night, generating up to R900,000 per month—a 1,025% increase.
7 Monterey Road: Rental income went from R30,000 per month to R450,000 per month—a 1,500% increase.
12 Hove Road: I paid R90,000 per month in rent. Post-eviction, the owners charged R500,000 per month, earning an extra R5,000,000 per year.
Little Hamptons: Previously earning R30,000 per month, it was transformed into a luxury rental bringing in R1,350,000 per year—an increase of R1,320,000 per year.
Fisherman’s Bend: Rent increased from R70,000 per month to R250,000 per month, demonstrating a 357% revenue boost.

The Capital Value Increases: The Properties Became More Valuable

The financial benefit wasn’t just in rental income. The value of the properties themselves skyrocketed, allowing the landlords to either sell at a premium or refinance at a higher valuation.

16 Leirmans Road was valued at R17–R19 million before my lease. After refurbishment, Keith Broad attempted to sell it for R31 million—an 80% increase in value.
Other properties saw increases of R5 million to R15 million in valuation, purely as a result of the improvements made under my tenure.
Total combined increase in rental and capital values across the properties: between R100 million and R150 million.
The Financial Motivation: Why They Had to Remove Me
Beyond greed, there was another reason the landlords needed me out: they were drowning in debt.
Their mortgage payments exceeded their pre-lease rental incomes—making their financial position unsustainable unless they could dramatically increase revenues.
Rental payments were never going to be enough to cover their growing financial obligations—meaning the lease was only ever a short-term strategy to get the properties renovated at my expense.
Their decision to cut off electricity in April, despite me paying for utilities, proves that the rent money was being redirected to service personal debts rather than property expenses.
They could only achieve financial stability by regaining control of the properties and exploiting their newfound rental potential.
The Contradictions in Their Own Words: Exposing the Lies
They claimed I left the properties in a worse condition—yet continued to use my renovations to market and rent them out at record prices.
They claimed I owed rent—yet had no issue re-letting the properties for up to 10 times my rental rate immediately after seizing them.
They claimed I engaged in un-authorized short-term lets—yet their own listings prove they had been renting the properties short-term long before the lease began.
They claimed they suffered losses—yet their own financial records show record profits, increased capital value, and unprecedented rental yields.

Conclusion: The Financial Motive Behind the Lies & Unlawful Evictions

This chapter proves beyond all doubt that financial gain was the driving force behind the landlords’ actions.

They orchestrated the unlawful evictions to unlock an R100–R150 million windfall.
They weaponized the media, fabricated arrears claims, and lied under oath to justify their fraudulent actions.
They benefited from record-breaking rental income while continuing to falsely claim they had suffered losses.
Every claim they made to justify their actions has been debunked by their own financial data, advertisements, and property records.

This was not about tenant disputes. This was an engineered property grab, designed to steal back transformed properties and exploit their newfound value while covering up the truth with lies, fraud, and legal manipulation.

The numbers do not lie—but the landlords did, and this chapter proves it.

DEFAMATION AS A WEAPON: WEAPONIZING THE MEDIA

This chapter exposes how Media24, through its subsidiaries News24, Netwerk24, and Rapport, was used as a weapon to execute a malicious defamation campaign. The articles published were not independent journalism but a coordinated effort to reinforce false narratives, directly assisting the unlawful eviction, malicious prosecution, and wrongful imprisonment efforts of those orchestrating this attack. Instead of investigating, verifying facts, or offering balanced coverage, the media functioned as a propaganda machine for private interests, amplifying fabricated allegations while ignoring exculpatory evidence.

The articles did not merely reflect a one-sided perspective; they were strategically timed and carefully crafted to serve as a tool to advance specific legal, financial, and reputational objectives. Every publication was part of a broader pattern of misinformation, designed to portray me as a criminal, justify illegal actions against me, and ensure that the orchestrators of this campaign faced no scrutiny.

Fabrication Of Facts & Absence Of Due Diligence

Media24's publications contained provable falsehoods. Articles referred to allegations of fraud, property damage, and other crimes as if they were established facts—without any supporting evidence.

The journalists:

Failed to conduct even the most basic verification of the claims made by the orchestrators of this attack.
Ignored court documents, financial records, and public records that disproved the false allegations.
Repeatedly cited the same group of individuals—Keith and Inge Broad, Wouter de Swardt, and SAPS officials—without cross-examining their statements or seeking alternative perspectives.
Despite the overwhelming evidence that disproved these claims, Media24 never issued retractions, updates, or corrections. Instead, they allowed the original falsehoods to remain online indefinitely, ensuring the damage was permanent.

Selective Reporting & Omission Of Critical Facts

The media coverage was highly selective and manipulative, intentionally excluding facts that contradicted the orchestrators' narrative.

This included:

Refusing to report on court victories that exposed the fraudulent nature of the allegations.
Ignoring the financial motive behind the fabricated claims, particularly the R31 million property sale immediately following my arrest.
Failing to mention that the landlords themselves proposed the lease, completely undermining their own fraud allegations.
Overlooking the fact that SAPS' own case against me collapsed due to lack of evidence.
This manipulative approach ensured that only the defamatory narrative remained in the public eye, reinforcing the false claims and making it appear as though I had no defense.

Timing Of Articles & Media Collusion With Private Interests

The timing of the articles aligns precisely with key legal and strategic moves made by the orchestrators. This proves that Media24 was not merely covering events but actively participating in the effort to destroy my credibility:

Key defamatory articles were published during my wrongful imprisonment, ensuring I was unable to defend myself.

Media coverage was used to justify illegal evictions, with articles appearing at the exact moments when landlords sought to take over my properties.

Articles disappeared or were altered after they had served their purpose, indicating a deliberate attempt to use the media as a strategic tool.

These suspicious patterns of publication prove intent, demonstrating that the media was not acting independently but rather as an instrument of those orchestrating the attack.

Exploitation Of The Legal Process & False Legitimization

Media24’s role was not limited to defamation—it actively influenced legal outcomes. The fabricated media reports were:

Used in court as “evidence” of wrongdoing, despite being based on unverified and demonstrably false claims.

Relied upon by SAPS (South African Police Service) and prosecutors to justify illegal arrests and extended detention.

Cited by the orchestrators to convince others that I was guilty, further isolating me and ensuring that I had no ability to fight back.

This created a dangerous feedback loop, where the media reports legitimized fraudulent legal actions, which in turn justified further defamatory reporting. It is clear that the orchestrators of this campaign knew they could manipulate the media to create a false perception of guilt, then use that perception to inflict real-world legal and financial damage.

The Lasting Harm: Perpetual Damage & The Digital Footprint

The impact of this defamation is not just historical—it is ongoing. In today’s digital world, false articles remain accessible indefinitely, meaning the damage continues to compound every day:

Every online search of my name returns defamatory content, reinforcing the false narrative.
Business opportunities are lost before they begin, as potential clients, partners, and investors encounter these false reports.
Social and professional relationships have been destroyed, as people believe what they read without questioning its validity.

Because Media24 refuses to correct, retract, or even investigate their false claims, they have knowingly allowed this reputational harm to persist and worsen over time.

Conclusion: Media24’S Failure & The Need For Accountability

This chapter establishes that Media24 was not a neutral observer but an active participant in a coordinated campaign of defamation. Their actions:

Legitimized false criminal charges, allowing them to be used in legal proceedings.
Enabled unlawful evictions and financial exploitation.
Destroyed my business, reputation, and ability to rebuild my life.
Shielded the true perpetrators from scrutiny, allowing them to continue their illegal activities with impunity.

This case represents one of the most egregious abuses of media power in recent history, where journalism was transformed from an instrument of truth into a weapon of personal and financial destruction.

The consequences of Media24’s reporting are not just my burden to bear; they set a dangerous precedent where the media can be co-opted to serve private agendas, enabling corruption, wrongful prosecution, and reputational annihilation. Without accountability, this will not be the last time this happens—it will become a playbook for those seeking to weaponize journalism for their own gain.

FABRICATED, FALSE, AND MISLEADING: HOW MEDIA24 CREATED A FALSE NARRATIVE TO JUSTIFY MALICIOUS PROSECUTION

This chapter presents a forensic analysis of the false, misleading, and fabricated statements published in News24, Netwerk24, and Rapport as part of an orchestrated campaign to destroy my reputation and justify malicious legal actions against me. Using the documented table of fabricated statements, this chapter breaks down each key falsehood, identifies its source, and compares it with verifiable facts, documents, and legal rulings.

The articles were not investigative journalism—they were pre-written propaganda pieces fed directly by my adversaries.
Every major claim made in these articles can be traced back to Wouter de Swardt, Keith Broad, or Inge Broad.
The media refused to verify any of these claims, despite public records, legal documents, and financial transactions disproving them.
Many of these false statements were later used as ‘evidence’ in court, forming a circular feedback loop where lies published in the media were used to justify my unlawful prosecution.

This chapter systematically exposes how each major claim made in the articles was deliberately fabricated or misleadingly presented, proving that Media24 played an active role in the conspiracy against me.

Identifying The Fabrications: The Media24 Falsehood Table

The accompanying table of fabricated, false, and misleading statements (attached in the document) presents a breakdown of how News24, Netwerk24, and Rapport published outright fabrications and selectively omitted exculpatory evidence.

Each false claim is categorized into:

Fabricated and False – Statements that were entirely made up or had no factual basis.
Misleading or Selective – Statements that manipulated facts by omitting key details or distorting their context.
Accurate – The very few statements that align with verifiable evidence.

The overwhelming majority of claims fall into the “Fabricated” or “Misleading” categories, proving that these articles were not written in pursuit of truth but rather to serve a specific pre-planned agenda.

The False Claims Vs. Verifiable Evidence

False Allegation: I Pocketed Millions Of Rands From Rental Fraud

What the articles claimed: That I scammed landlords and guests out of millions and that I pocketed the money personally.

The truth: The properties I leased were fully paid for, and financial records prove that I paid over R4.8 million in rent and deposits. Additionally, I was actively reinvesting all rental income into property improvements, renovations, and operational costs.
Why this was fabricated:
- The media failed to reference any financial records or transactions, instead repeating a baseless claim from Wouter de Swardt and Keith Broad.
- They omitted the fact that I was blocked from collecting revenue due to deliberate sabotage by the landlords.
- They ignored the significant renovations and upgrades made to the properties, which tripled rental value and directly benefited the landlords.

False Allegation: I Was A Fugitive “Hiding” In Luxury Mansions

What the articles claimed: That I was evading authorities and hiding in luxury properties I had no right to occupy.
The truth: I was legally renting these properties undersigned, valid lease agreements, and I was actively engaged with legal proceedings—there was no attempt to flee.
Why this was fabricated:
- Court filings, lease agreements, and financial records prove I was a legitimate tenant, with the landlords fully aware of my presence.
- The narrative of me "hiding" was deliberately designed to make me appear guilty, despite my full compliance with legal processes.
- The media deliberately ignored the fact that my eviction attempts were unlawful and that I had a High Court interdict preventing them from removing me.

False Allegation: I Left Properties In Ruins

What the articles claimed: That I caused extensive damage to properties, leaving them uninhabitable.
The truth: The properties were massively upgraded and listed for sale at significantly increased values after my renovations.
Why this was fabricated:
- Photographic evidence and real estate listings contradict the claim, showing that the properties were not damaged but, in fact, renovated to a far higher standard than when I took occupancy.
- The landlords actively used my renovations to increase their asking price (e.g., Keith Broad listed the property for R31 million, a massive increase from the initial valuation).
- The media ignored this financial windfall, instead falsely portraying me as having devalued the properties.

Media24’S Collusion With My Adversaries

The timing and content of the articles follow a clear and deliberate pattern that proves Media24 was actively colluding with my accusers.

Every major article was published at key legal moments—when I was arrested or detained and unable to respond.
Media24 refused to publish any information about my legal victories, dismissals of charges, or the corrupt role of SAPS in my prosecution.
Every article relied on the same small group of sources—Wouter De Swardt, the Broads, and SAPS (South African Police Service) officials involved in my unlawful arrest.
None of these sources were questioned or scrutinized, despite their clear financial and legal conflicts of interest.

The Use Of Fabricated Media As A Tool For Malicious Prosecution

One of the most critical aspects of this campaign was the way these false articles were weaponized in court.

Articles were submitted as ‘evidence’ in legal proceedings, despite containing no factual basis.
My accusers actively referenced the media to reinforce their fraudulent claims, creating a self-reinforcing cycle of misinformation.
The prosecution used these media reports to justify further detentions, oppose bail, and present a false perception of guilt to the court.

Press Code Violations And Legal Implications

Under South Africa’s Press Code, journalists are required to:

Verify information before publication.
Offer the right of reply to individuals being accused.
Ensure balanced, fair reporting that does not mislead the public.

The analysis in this chapter proves that Media24 flagrantly violated every single one of these journalistic obligations, instead choosing to act as a propaganda machine for a criminal conspiracy.

Conclusion: The Deliberate Fabrication Of A Criminal Narrative

This chapter methodically exposes how News24, Netwerk24, and Rapport systematically spread false and misleading claims, which:

Destroyed my reputation and financial stability.
Enabled my unlawful arrests and detentions.
Shielded the criminal actions of the landlords and corrupt SAPS (South African Police Service) officials.
The evidence is irrefutable—these were not mistakes, oversights, or misinterpretations. This was a premeditated, systematic effort to weaponize the media for legal and financial gain.
Media24 did not just fail to report accurately—they actively participated in a fraud that had direct criminal consequences.

This chapter provides a fully documented breakdown of every fabricated statement, supported by the corresponding legal records, financial statements, and evidence proving their falsity. It is one of the most critical pieces of evidence demonstrating the role of Media24 in facilitating malicious prosecution and defamation.

THE ROLE OF MEDIA24 & THE FABRICATED NARRATIVE: AN EXAMINATION OF FALSE REPORTING AND MALICIOUS PROSECUTION

This chapter presents a detailed analysis of the role played by Media24, specifically News24, in the malicious prosecution campaign orchestrated against me. It examines how fabricated articles were strategically used not just to destroy my reputation but to serve as a weapon in criminal and civil proceedings, justify unlawful arrests, and manipulate public perception. Through a careful dissection of evidence, we expose how these articles were neither accidental nor misinformed journalism, but rather a deliberate and complicit act of defamation in furtherance of a larger conspiracy.

Media24’S Role In Perpetuating Falsehoods

The false narrative that was systematically fed to the public through News24, Netwerk24, and Rapport was not the product of independent investigative journalism, but the calculated work of a small, colluding group with a vested interest in my downfall. The same names appear at every stage of this campaign—Keith and Inge Broad, Wouter de Swardt, and corrupt elements within SAPS (South African Police Service).

Every “source” quoted in the articles was linked to the same individuals who orchestrated the false allegations against me.
False allegations were republished as fact, creating an echo chamber of misinformation.
The very individuals responsible for my unlawful arrests and prosecution were also the sources feeding News24 with fabricated claims.

This chapter examines how these actors successfully manufactured a false sense of credibility by disguising self-serving accusations as independent corroboration, when in reality, it was a self-reinforcing loop of deception.

The December Arrest: Media As A Tool For Malicious Prosecution

One of the most damning pieces of evidence demonstrating Media24’s direct complicity is how their articles were used in the December arrest operation.

Keith Broad submitted his High Court application to reclaim the property on December 13, 2022.
I was arrested on December 14, 2022.
The News24 article was published on January 14, 2023—strategically released while I was still incarcerated and unable to defend myself.

The News24 article was not independent reporting, but rather a calculated manoeuvre designed to reinforce the fabricated legal claims against me. The arrest was never about justice—it was about removing me as an obstacle so the landlords could seize back a property that I had invested millions into.

Articles were later submitted in court as ‘evidence’ to justify false charges.
Statements in the articles directly contradicted the facts but were used to sway judicial proceedings.
Media24 refused to correct demonstrably false claims, even when presented with overwhelming evidence.

How The Media Served As An Instrument Of Defamation

Media24’s refusal to engage or fact-check is one of the clearest indicators of their direct complicity rather than mere negligence.

They failed to verify even the most basic facts.
They did not seek comment or attempt to present a balanced perspective.
They disregarded critical court rulings and evidence that discredited their sources.

This chapter presents a line-by-line analysis of how these articles were structured to portray a false reality, emphasizing their selective use of information, omissions of exonerating evidence, and outright fabrications. The financial motivations behind these defamatory articles are also explored, as they served not only the landlords’ interests but also aligned with Media24’s business model of sensationalist reporting.

Complicity Vs. Deception: The Case Against Media24

The argument that Media24 was merely misled by false sources does not hold up under scrutiny.

Journalists failed to conduct even the most minimal due diligence.
Court records, lease agreements, and independent statements all contradicted their narrative.
News24 has a documented history of unethical reporting practices when aligned with financial or corporate interests.

This chapter provides an extensive legal and ethical analysis of how Media24’s reporting violated journalistic standards, the South African Press Code, and defamation laws. It also explores the wider implications of allowing media platforms to operate without accountability—highlighting how their unchecked power can destroy reputations, influence court outcomes, and ultimately subvert justice.

A Deliberate Refusal To Acknowledge The Truth

Despite multiple attempts to engage Media24 in dialogue and correct the false information, their response was not just dismissive, but demonstrably dishonest.

They falsely claimed that journalistic ethics prevented them from engaging while charges were active.
They ignored clear evidence disproving their claims.
They selectively reported only those aspects of the case that served their pre-existing narrative.

The outright refusal to engage in any form of journalistic due diligence or balance demonstrates that this was not accidental misreporting—it was a strategic operation designed to legitimize the false criminal allegations made against me.

Conclusion: A Precedent Of Media-Enabled Persecution

This chapter does more than expose Media24’s role in a defamation campaign—it highlights the systemic dangers of a media landscape where unchecked corporate influence can destroy individuals without consequence. The evidence presented leaves no doubt that the articles were designed not to inform the public, but to aid in malicious prosecutions and financial crimes.

The fabricated narrative was not the work of journalists, but of the same individuals behind my unlawful arrests.
The refusal to engage or retract falsehoods was a deliberate attempt to maintain the illusion of legitimacy.
This case exemplifies how the media can be weaponized to subvert justice, manipulate legal proceedings, and shield corporate interests from scrutiny.

The legal and ethical violations committed by Media24 are not just an attack on me—they represent a broader threat to press integrity and justice in South Africa. This chapter serves as a comprehensive case study in how media platforms can be exploited to facilitate organized criminality under the guise of journalism.

THE IMPACT: PROFOUND AND CONTINUING LOSS, SUFFERING, AND DAMAGE

This chapter provides a comprehensive and factual account of the extensive, ongoing damage inflicted by the malicious campaign against me. The sheer scale of financial loss, reputational destruction, legal injustice, personal suffering, and stolen years of life cannot be overstated. This was not merely an attempt to remove a tenant—this was an orchestrated, multi-pronged attack designed to erase my entire existence.

Through illegal evictions disguised as criminal prosecutions, fabricated media narratives, and systemic corruption within law enforcement, those behind this campaign ensured that I lost everything: my home, business, livelihood, reputation, freedom, and ability to rebuild. The harm was not incidental—it was the intended outcome.

The Scale Of The Losses

At the heart of this campaign was a fundamental truth that the perpetrators desperately sought to obscure I was not a rogue tenant—I was a legal tenant whose presence made the landlords vastly better off.

My lease agreements were valid, legally binding, and honoured in full.
I paid rent consistently and in advance.
I transformed the properties, increasing their rental value by 300-1,500%.
I generated R25 million annually, turning these properties into some of Cape Town’s most sought-after luxury rentals.

Rather than honouring their agreements, the landlords saw an opportunity to steal back properties that I had improved—without paying for the renovations, without compensating me, and with full financial and legal impunity. This could not have been achieved legally—so they turned to crime, media defamation, and abuse of state power.

The impact of this fraudulent campaign has been devastating and continues to destroy every aspect of my life.

The Destruction Of My Business & Financial Devastation

Before the campaign, I operated a highly successful business generating R25 million per year, built through tireless work, financial investment, and industry expertise.

Six high-end properties, fully renovated, achieving peak luxury rental rates.
Top rankings on Airbnb and Booking.com, including Superhost and Preferred Partner Plus status.
A projected profit margin of R20 million over five years.
All of this was stolen from me. Not just lost—stolen.
The landlords unlawfully seized back the properties and immediately listed them for sale at vastly inflated prices, using my renovations as selling points.
They retained every asset within these properties—furniture, artwork, high-value possessions, and decades’ worth of investment.
They cut off my income streams, making it impossible to fund my legal defense, forcing me into financial ruin.

The financial damage alone exceeds R50 million in direct losses and R150 million in lost future income. But the loss is far greater than financial—it is the erasure of my life's work.

The Weaponization Of False Criminal Charges To Justify Theft

Every element of my destruction was coordinated—from the illegal arrests to the defamatory media coverage, from the financial sabotage to the physical destruction of my business.

The unlawful arrests were strategically timed to coincide with legal battles, ensuring I was absent and unable to defend my rights.
False affidavits, perjury, and fabricated evidence were used to justify detentions, despite courts dismissing these charges upon scrutiny.
Corrupt SAPS (South African Police Service) officers and private investigator Wouter de Swardt worked hand in hand with the landlords to execute this scheme.

These were not just legal missteps—they were crimes, executed with the full knowledge that they were fraudulent.

The Impact On My Reputation And Professional Future

Beyond the financial destruction, this campaign obliterated my professional credibility.

The Media24 articles created a permanent, defamatory digital record portraying me as a criminal.
Potential employers, clients, and even attorneys refuse to engage with me due to the false public perception.
Attempts to rent a home, secure a job, or even conduct basic financial transactions are met with rejection.

This is not just a temporary setback—it is a permanent stain manufactured with intent, ensuring that I can never rebuild my life.

The Loss Of My Home, Liberty, And Dignity

For decades, I built a life based on integrity, hard work, and success. This campaign reduced me to nothing.

I lost my home—the properties I legally occupied were seized while I was unlawfully detained.
I lost my possessions—everything I owned, from furniture to artwork, was stolen by those who orchestrated this campaign.
I lost my freedom—spending three months in Pollsmoor Prison, subjected to inhumane conditions and violent threats.
Pollsmoor was a deliberate form of psychological and physical torture.
My arrest and incarceration were not about legal justice—they were about removing me as an obstacle.
I left prison with nothing but the clothes I was arrested in, my entire life wiped away in the space of three months.

The Impact On My Immigration Status

One of the most malicious elements of this campaign was the deliberate manipulation of my immigration status.

SAPS officials stole and retained my passport for nearly a year, blocking my ability to renew my visa.
Fabricated affidavits falsely claimed I had overstayed, despite clear records proving otherwise.
The criminal charges were leveraged to label me a “flight risk,” despite my ongoing legal battles proving my intent to remain and fight.
The result? I have been unable to visit my mother, who has been battling cancer since 2022.
The only thing preventing me from seeing my mother is the lies told by my accusers.
Until these false charges and narratives are undone, I am trapped in a legal limbo.

The Devastating Emotional And Psychological Toll

No words can fully capture the mental, emotional, and physical toll of this campaign.

I have endured death threats, physical danger, and the looming threat of further unlawful incarceration.
I have been stripped of my dignity, my ability to function, and my very identity.
Every relationship, every professional connection, every element of stability has been destroyed.
The goal was not just financial theft. The goal was complete erasure.
They wanted me to disappear, to be buried in prison, unable to fight back.
They wanted to ensure that even if I did escape their web of lies, I would have nothing left to return to.

This is not just a personal injustice—this is a systematic failure of law, media, and governance that allowed criminals to weaponize the justice system for personal gain.

The Urgency Of Resolution

Each day this remains unresolved, the damage compounds.

My immigration status remains in jeopardy.
I am unable to work, secure stability, or even regain basic financial footing.
My ability to seek justice is actively obstructed by the very system that enabled my persecution.
The truth must be exposed.
The fabricated charges, false narratives, and stolen assets must be addressed.
Those responsible must be held accountable—not just for me, but for anyone else who could become a victim of the same abuse of power.

Conclusion: A Crime Without Consequence—Unless It Is Stopped

This was not an eviction dispute. It was not a civil disagreement.

This was a calculated, criminal operation designed to steal my life and my future.
It was enabled by media complicity, corrupt law enforcement, and a justice system that failed at every level.
And it will not stop until those responsible are forced to face the truth.

MY ATTEMPTS TO REACH OUT TO MEDIA24: MEDIA24'S DELIBERATE REFUSAL TO ENGAGE

Despite the complete collapse of the fabricated charges against me and the overwhelming documentary evidence disproving the false narratives spread by Media24, every attempt I made to engage with the publication was met with evasion, misrepresentation, and outright refusal. This chapter details my extensive efforts to correct the record and the systemic failure of Media24 to uphold even the most basic journalistic standards.

Repeated, Good-Faith Efforts To Set The Record Straight

Following the withdrawal of all charges against me, I made multiple formal approaches to News24 and Media24. These communications included a comprehensive four-page letter outlining the factual inaccuracies in their reporting, the fabricated evidence on which their articles relied, and the broader context of the coordinated campaign orchestrated by Wouter de Swardt and his associates.

Additionally, I attached a 25-page index referencing hundreds of critical documents, including sworn affidavits, legal rulings, and evidence proving the falsehood of the claims against me. Despite the extensive, verifiable material I provided, Media24 refused to engage in any meaningful way.

News24’S Contradictory And Inaccurate Response

In response to my outreach, News24’s Public Editor, George Claassen, issued a dismissive reply stating that News24 could not engage with me because I was facing "serious criminal charges." This statement was demonstrably false.

At the time of Claassen’s response:

All fraud charges had been formally withdrawn by the prosecution in March 2023.
The immigration charge was dismissed in June 2023 by the Senior Public Prosecutor.
There were no active criminal proceedings against me—a fact that was fully documented.
Media24's refusal to acknowledge this truth was not an oversight; it was a deliberate misrepresentation. Even more damning was the blatant contradiction in their stance: they had no issue publishing multiple defamatory articles while I was still facing fabricated charges, yet when the charges were dropped and I presented factual evidence disproving their claims, they suddenly claimed they were unable to engage.

This double standard is not just unethical; it exposes Media24's active complicity in spreading false narratives.

The Legal And Ethical Violations Of Media24’S Reporting

Media24’s refusal to engage was not only irresponsible but also legally indefensible. South African media law and press regulations impose a duty of fairness and accuracy on journalists. They are required to:

Ensure balanced reporting by providing both sides of a story.

Correct false and misleading information when credible evidence is presented.

Adhere to the Open Court Principle, which allows for fair reporting on legal matters.

By refusing to even consider my response, Media24 knowingly suppressed evidence that would have exposed the falsehoods they had published, a direct violation of journalistic ethics.

The Press Council’S Failure To Hold Media24 Accountable

Beyond News24’s refusal to engage, my case was further exacerbated by the failure of South Africa’s Press Council to address these violations. Despite filing formal complaints detailing Media24's misconduct, the Press Council either ignored or dismissed these concerns without proper review.

This lack of accountability allowed the damage caused by these false reports to persist unchecked, further proving that Media24 was not merely negligent—they were actively shielding those responsible for my wrongful persecution.

Conclusion: The Media’S Role In Facilitating A Criminal Conspiracy

This chapter exposes the systematic refusal of Media24 to engage with factual evidence, highlighting how:

They were eager to publish false accusations when it served a harmful narrative.
They refused to retract or correct their stories, even when presented with irrefutable evidence.
Their fabricated reporting directly contributed to my unlawful arrest, detention, and reputational damage.
The refusal to acknowledge the truth was not due to journalistic caution but a conscious decision to protect those responsible for the false prosecution against me. Their deliberate silence and misrepresentation made them an active participant in the corruption and misconduct that this case lays bare.

THE MEDIA’S ROLE IN FACILITATING A CRIMINAL CONSPIRACY

A Deliberate And Unforgivable Choice: Refusing To Engage While Maximizing Harm

Not only did Media24 refuse to engage or acknowledge the overwhelming evidence disproving their false reporting, but they also made a conscious decision to continue publishing and promoting the defamatory articles, ensuring that the damage to my reputation, career, and future remains as severe today as it was when the articles were first published.

Despite being provided with irrefutable evidence, sworn affidavits, court rulings, and financial records contradicting their reporting, Media24 ignored it all.
Rather than seeking to minimize the harm caused, they have intentionally allowed it to grow by keeping these articles live and fully accessible.
Every false and misleading claim remains uncorrected, meaning that anyone searching for my name or related events will continue to find these fabrications as the dominant narrative.

This is not an accidental oversight—it is a deliberate act of continued defamation, ensuring that the falsehoods they published remain as destructive today as they were when first released.

The Lasting Power Of Online Media: How Media24 Perpetuates A Continuous Harm

In the era of digital journalism, the impact of online articles far surpasses that of print media. While a defamatory newspaper article has a finite lifespan, a News24 or Netwerk24 article remains searchable, indexable, and permanently accessible to anyone, anywhere, at any time.

Every defamatory article has been indexed by search engines, meaning it continues to appear at the top of Google search results when my name is entered.
These articles have been syndicated across multiple online platforms, further amplifying their reach.
The falsehoods are regularly re-shared, referenced in new stories, and continue to shape the public perception of me.

Even though the legal cases have collapsed, the truth has been fully documented, and the corruption behind my persecution is now clear, the damage continues daily because Media24 has taken active steps to ensure these articles remain permanently available.

Rather than taking even the smallest action to mitigate the harm—such as removing the articles, issuing corrections, or publishing a right of reply—they have done the opposite.

They have kept every single article live.
They have refused to issue any retractions, corrections, or clarifications.
They have ensured that the misinformation they spread remains permanently attached to my name.
This is not journalistic negligence—it is deliberate malice.

The Consequences Of Their Inaction: A Continuing Crime Against My Name

Because of Media24’s decision to prioritize their own reputation over the truth, the impact of their false reporting has been exponentially worsened:

Potential employers, business partners, and legal professionals searching for my name continue to find these defamatory articles, making it impossible to rebuild my career.
Future landlords, service providers, or financial institutions immediately assume I am a convicted criminal, refusing to engage with me.
Even social and personal relationships have been permanently damaged, as people continue to encounter these articles and assume the worst.
Legal and financial recovery remains impossible as long as these articles remain the primary source of information available to the public.

By keeping these articles online, uncorrected, and fully accessible, Media24 has ensured that their false reporting will continue to destroy my life indefinitely.

Conclusion: A Perpetual Crime Of Defamation

The fact that every legal proceeding against me has collapsed, that every piece of evidence disproves the allegations, and that the true conspirators behind this fraud have been exposed should have led to a full correction of the record. Instead, Media24 has chosen to continue causing harm, ignoring overwhelming proof of their false reporting, and weaponizing the power of online media to make sure their defamation never fades.

This is not just an abuse of journalistic power—it is a conscious, deliberate act of sustained harm.
Media24 is not simply negligent—they are complicit in the ongoing destruction of my reputation, livelihood, and future.
Their refusal to engage is not just about ignoring the truth—it is about ensuring that their false narrative remains the only one the public ever sees.

Their inaction is, in itself, a continuation of the crime..

CRIMINAL COMPLICITY OF MEDIA24 & NEWS24: A CASE STUDY IN DELIBERATE MEDIA MANIPULATION

The Weaponization Of The Press To Facilitate Criminal Objectives

This chapter systematically examines how Media24 and News24 actively participated in the orchestration of this campaign, detailing:

How the articles were coordinated with unlawful police actions, proving intentional complicity rather than independent reporting.
The deliberate use of false information—despite clear evidence to the contrary.
The suppression of exculpatory facts and refusal to engage with any response that contradicted the predetermined narrative.
Direct evidence linking News24’s publications to their sources within the corrupt SAPS network and the consortium responsible for these acts..

A Coordinated Campaign Of Disinformation

Key evidence includes:

A timeline of articles published in conjunction with police actions, showing an indisputable link between SAPS operations and News24’s coverage.
Journalistic sources with direct ties to the corrupt investigators involved in my case.
News24’s refusal to correct false information, retract demonstrably untrue claims, or acknowledge documented evidence that contradicted their reporting.
The reliance on “anonymous sources” while simultaneously ignoring publicly available legal filings that disproved their allegations.

The Legal Implications: Complicity In Criminal Conduct

The conduct of Media24 and News24 does not merely constitute unethical journalism—it meets the legal threshold for complicity in multiple criminal offences, including:

Defamation and Deliberate Publication of False Information – False reporting was not only irresponsible but was done with clear intent to harm and facilitate criminal actions.
Obstruction of Justice – The articles were designed to influence legal proceedings, pressure judicial authorities, and undermine my right to a fair trial.
Collusion with Criminal Actors – Evidence demonstrates direct coordination between journalists, corrupt law enforcement officers, and the consortium members, implicating News24 in conspiracy to pervert the course of justice.
Violation of Press Ethics and Potential Criminal Defamation – The failure to verify information, provide balanced reporting, or allow rebuttals constitutes a wilful breach of journalistic integrity with potential legal ramifications.
This chapter does not rely on subjective opinion—it is built entirely on documented evidence, timelines, and direct quotes from communications between those involved..

The Broader Implications: Media As An Instrument Of State And Corporate Corruption

This was not independent journalism—it was a premeditated smear campaign carried out on behalf of corrupt law enforcement and private entities with vested financial interests.
The refusal to investigate the real crimes—the unlawful seizures, fabricated charges, and procedural abuses—further demonstrates Media24’s complicity.
By granting legitimacy to provably false allegations, News24 functioned as an accessory to the crimes carried out by the consortium and corrupt SAPS officers.

Conclusion: An Unprecedented Abuse Of Media Power

This chapter presents the full extent of Media24 and News24’s criminal complicity, detailing their role in the unlawful actions taken against me. The evidence makes it clear:

The articles were timed and structured to provide cover for unlawful arrests and asset seizures.
The reporting ignored exculpatory evidence and actively worked to suppress facts that contradicted the predetermined narrative.
Journalists acted in concert with corrupt law enforcement and private entities, violating not just ethical standards but also potential criminal statutes.

VIOLATIONS OF THE PRESS CODE: MEDIA24’S SYSTEMIC BREACH OF JOURNALISTIC ETHICS

The role of the media is to inform the public truthfully, accurately, and fairly. However, in this case, Media24/News24 abandoned even the most basic journalistic standards and instead became a tool of the individuals orchestrating a fraudulent legal and media campaign against me. This chapter provides a fact-based analysis of Media24’s numerous violations of the South African Press Code, demonstrating how their reporting was not merely negligent but systematically unethical and complicit in a criminal effort to destroy my reputation.

Systemic Breaches: 95% Of The Content Was False Or Fabricated

An extensive forensic review of Media24’s reporting uncovered 119 provable falsehoods and fabrications, comprising approximately 95% of the content across multiple articles. These were not minor errors or occasional misinterpretations but a deliberate and systemic pattern of deceit, designed to promote an entirely false and damaging narrative.

Every material claim of significance within these articles was either wholly false or manipulated to mislead readers.
Key facts, legal outcomes, and documented evidence were either ignored or actively distorted to fit a pre-scripted narrative.
When false allegations were disproven through court rulings, criminal investigations, and documentary evidence, Media24 refused to update or correct the record.

These articles did not report on a legal case—they were actively complicit in the conspiracy against me.

How Media24 Became A Willing Participant In A Criminal Campaign

Rather than conducting independent investigations, Media24 acted as an uncritical mouthpiece for Wouter de Swardt and the Consortium—a group of individuals who had a direct financial motive to destroy my business, steal my assets, and ensure I was unable to fight back.

Wouter De Swardt personally provided the defamatory claims that Media24 published without verification.
Not a single journalist independently sought to verify the accuracy of the accusations.
The articles followed a timeline that was directly aligned with De Swardt’s and the landlords’ attempts to unlawfully seize my properties.

At no stage did Media24 attempt to contact me for comment, verify court records, or engage with other sources to balance their reporting. This is not journalism—this is complicity in a criminal act.

Deliberate Bias And Suppression Of Critical Information

Media24’s reporting demonstrated a clear, provable bias, evident through:

Selective omission of exculpatory evidence – Court rulings and legal findings disproving the allegations were never reported.
Fabricated allegations presented as fact – No attempt was made to qualify or verify false claims.
Refusal to engage with counter-evidence – My repeated attempts to present documented proof were ignored.
Sustained refusal to correct false reporting – Despite overwhelming evidence, the articles remain online, unchanged.

This was not negligence—this was the intentional manipulation of public perception through false reporting.

Weaponizing The Power Of Online Media To Perpetuate Harm

Unlike print journalism, online articles are permanent, searchable, and actively indexed by Google. Media24 knew this and deliberately weaponized the power of digital media to ensure the false narrative they created remains the dominant story about me, indefinitely.

By keeping these false articles live under all their publications, Media24 has ensured the defamation remains ongoing.
The articles continue to appear at the top of search engine results, destroying my reputation with every new reader.
Potential employers, legal professionals, and financial institutions continue to encounter these fabrications, making reintegration into society impossible.

This is not just irresponsible journalism—it is an act of ongoing, deliberate harm.

Legal Violations Of The South African Press Code

The South African Press Code requires that media outlets adhere to the principles of accuracy, fairness, and transparency. Media24’s conduct represents a flagrant breach of these fundamental journalistic obligations, violating:

Section 1.1 – Truthfulness And Accuracy
- Falsehood: The articles claimed my August 2022 arrest was for “fraud.” Fact: I was arrested on baseless theft charges, later dismissed.
- Falsehood: The articles falsely claimed that homeowners suffered financial ruin. Fact: The properties I leased achieved record-high rental revenues and market values.
Section 1.2 – Fairness And Balance
- No alternative perspectives were presented. Media24 exclusively relied on De Swardt and his associates, despite their vested interests.
- No effort was made to verify court proceedings, property records, or my legal standing.
Section 1.3 – Verification Of Facts
- The articles falsely stated I had committed “ongoing fraud”, when court records show no evidence of such claims.
- Media24 refused to verify the existence of supposed “victims”, allowing fabricated statements to be published as fact.
Section 1.8 – Right Of Reply
- I made multiple formal attempts to provide evidence and counterclaims, all of which were ignored.
Section 3.3 – Protection Of Dignity And Reputation
- The articles went beyond reporting and became a deliberate character assassination campaign.

Personal information, private details, and accusations unrelated to any legal proceedings were published solely to damage my reputation.

The Role Of The Press Council In Failing To Hold Media24 Accountable

When confronted with overwhelming evidence of misconduct, the Press Council of South Africa failed to act, further enabling this campaign of defamation.

Formal complaints were dismissed or ignored, despite extensive documentation of false reporting.
No disciplinary action was taken against the journalists responsible.
Media24 continues to operate with complete impunity, ensuring that their fabricated narratives remain unchallenged.

This case exposes not just individual journalistic failures, but the broader systemic corruption that allows media organizations to act as unchecked, unaccountable forces of destruction.

The Consequences Of Media24’S Actions: A Legacy Of Irreparable Harm

Media24’s false reporting has inflicted severe, ongoing harm, including:

Complete destruction of my reputation – Ensuring the false allegations remain at the top of search results.
Financial devastation – Preventing any ability to recover my business or secure employment.
Permanent legal and immigration issues – Ensuring that even though the charges were baseless, the public record remains stained.
Severe psychological and emotional distress – Being unable to move forward with my life due to the sustained falsehoods.

Unlike a false newspaper article that fades over time, Media24 has created a permanent digital record of defamation. This means the damage does not end—it grows with every passing day.

Conclusion: Media24’s Intentional Breach Of Public Trust

Media24’s reporting was not an accident. It was a premeditated, strategic effort to destroy my reputation, reinforce a false legal narrative, and protect individuals engaged in criminal misconduct.

The violations of the Press Code are so extensive that they cannot be attributed to mere oversight.
The refusal to engage, correct, or remove defamatory content proves an intent to continue causing harm.
Media24 has aligned itself with criminals, enabling one of the most egregious abuses of the legal and media system in recent history.

This chapter exposes the full extent of Media24’s misconduct, providing irrefutable evidence of their complicity in a fabricated case against me. Their continued refusal to acknowledge the truth is not just a violation of journalistic ethics—it is a continuation of the crime itself.

PRESS COUNCIL COMPLAINT: THE FIRST SUBMISSION

The formal complaint to the Press Council, submitted on 21 August 2024, is a comprehensive, fact-driven document that outlines Media24's extensive breaches of the Press Code and the devastating impact of their false reporting. This submission is significant not only for the detailed evidence it provides but also because it lays the foundation for accountability and retraction of defamatory content that has severely damaged my life and reputation.

Scope Of The Complaint

The complaint is based on multiple articles published by Media24 and its subsidiaries (News24, Netwerk24, Die Burger, and Rapport) between August 2022 and February 2023. These articles contained demonstrably false, misleading, and defamatory allegations, the effects of which remain as damaging today as when they were first published due to their ongoing availability online.

The articles misrepresented both arrests and falsely framed the charges against me as fraud-related, when in reality, no fraud charges ever existed.

Media24 systematically omitted critical exculpatory facts, failing to report on:
The withdrawal of charges.
The magistrate’s scathing remarks about the case.
The total absence of financial fraud charges.
The role of the private investigator, Wouter de Swardt, in orchestrating the campaign.

Media24 did not act independently but instead served as a tool for those attempting to remove me from my properties and ensure my wrongful imprisonment.

The Central Allegation: Media24’S Role In A Coordinated Campaign

This complaint asserts that Media24 was not merely negligent but was actively complicit in a malicious campaign. The articles were knowingly false and were used as strategic tools in civil and criminal proceedings against me.

Media24’s articles mirrored almost verbatim the false allegations provided by Wouter de Swardt, the landlords Keith and Inge Broad, and their legal representatives.
The timing of the articles was strategic, with each publication coinciding with key legal moments—arrests, bail hearings, and civil proceedings—ensuring maximum reputational and legal damage.
Despite overwhelming evidence disproving their claims, Media24 has refused to retract the articles, correct the falsehoods, or even acknowledge their misconduct.

The Unanswered Questions & Press Council’S Responsibility

The complaint calls on the Press Council to investigate and determine the extent to which Media24 knowingly participated in this scheme. While it is clear that Media24’s conduct was grossly negligent, the evidence suggests possible intentional complicity rather than mere recklessness.

Did Media24 knowingly collaborate with those engineering my wrongful arrests?
Was there a direct relationship between Media24 journalists and Wouter de Swardt, beyond what is publicly known?
Why did Media24 refuse to engage with me when presented with evidence disproving their false reporting?

The refusal to correct or retract the false articles is an active choice to perpetuate harm—a choice that violates every principle of journalistic integrity.

The Stakes: The Ongoing Harm Caused By Media24’S Conduct

Media24’s refusal to issue corrections or acknowledge wrongdoing means that the defamatory falsehoods remain accessible, searchable, and damaging to this day.

These articles are not static—they actively prevent me from rebuilding my life.
The reputational damage inflicted remains as potent today as it was two years ago.
Media24 has taken no action to mitigate this harm, despite the overwhelming evidence of fabrication.

The power of online media over print journalism makes this even more egregious. Unlike printed articles that fade over time, these articles remain the first and only impression of me for anyone searching my name. The deliberate inaction by Media24 is not just negligence—it is intentional and malicious.

Conclusion: The Complaint As A Test Of Media Accountability

This complaint is one of the most significant cases the Press Council has ever received, given the volume of false information, the scale of the reputational harm, and the blatant refusal of Media24 to engage.

If Media24 had initiated an investigation when first contacted, it would have long since concluded. Instead, they ignored the truth, failed in their journalistic duties, and have continued to facilitate the destruction of my reputation and life.

This is not just a breach of journalistic ethics—it is a clear-cut case of defamation, reputational harm, and wilful negligence. This complaint demands full accountability, retractions, corrections, and the maximum possible sanctions.

A SYSTEMATIC FAILURE: THE PRESS COUNCIL’S INITIAL NON-RESPONSE

This second submission to the Press Council Ombudsman, sent on 8 October 2024, was not a new complaint—it was a follow-up after weeks of silence and complete inaction on the first submission sent on 22 August 2024. The fact that no response was received for a case of this magnitude is itself a scandal.

The complaint detailed one of the most serious breaches of journalistic ethics in recent South African history.
It outlined over 70 demonstrably false statements published across multiple articles.
Despite this, the Press Council failed to respond, investigate, or even acknowledge receipt of the complaint.

Had the Press Council acted when first approached, the defamatory articles could have been investigated, retracted, and corrected long before now. Instead, their inaction has directly contributed to the continued destruction of my reputation and life, allowing Media24’s false reporting to remain online unchecked.

The Expanding Scope: New Developments Strengthening The Complaint

Between the first and second submissions, significant new developments emerged that further validated my claims and proved the existence of a criminal conspiracy involving SAPS (South African Police Service), private individuals, and Media24. These developments were outlined in the second submission and included:

PSIRA’s Criminal Charges Against Wouter De Swardt

The Private Security Industry Regulatory Authority (PSIRA) found Wouter De Swardt guilty of multiple serious offenses and began criminal proceedings against him.

PSIRA only initiates criminal charges in the rarest of cases—out of 2.7 million members, they filed criminal cases in only two instances in 2023, making this an extraordinary outcome.

SAPS (South African Police Service), Inspectorate Investigation & Disciplinary Action Against Sergeant Stevens

Colonel Colette McLean, the SAPS (South African Police Service), Inspectorate commander, initiated disciplinary action and criminal investigations against Sergeant Stevens and the Belville Commercial Crime Unit.

This is the very same SAPS (South African Police Service), officer who worked with Wouter De Swardt and Media24 to orchestrate my wrongful arrests—his misconduct is now officially under investigation.

Western Cape Police Ombudsman Investigation

A formal investigation into systemic corruption within SAPS (South African Police Service), and its links to private interests was launched, further exposing the criminal nature of the case.

This investigation proves that the allegations against me were never legitimate—they were manufactured to serve a private agenda.

These developments vindicate everything I have said from the beginning:

The criminal charges against me were fraudulent.
The landlords, police, and private investigators conspired to destroy me.
Media24 actively assisted them by spreading false information.

Yet, despite these earth-shattering developments, the Press Council still refused to act.

The Press Council’S Duty And Its Failure To Fulfil It

The Press Council has an explicit duty to uphold truth, fairness, and journalistic integrity. By failing to act, they have allowed Media24 to continue publishing demonstrably false and defamatory content without accountability.

The Council is supposed to ensure corrections are issued when false reporting is exposed—yet nothing has been done.
The Council is supposed to investigate serious journalistic breaches—yet they have ignored one of the most egregious cases in South African media history.
The Council is supposed to protect individuals from reputational destruction by false reporting—yet they have allowed my life to be permanently ruined.

Had they acted immediately upon receiving the first complaint, these articles would have been reviewed, corrected, and possibly removed by now. Instead, the inaction of the Press Council itself has contributed to the continued harm.

Every day these articles remain online, I continue to suffer massive, irreparable harm.
Every job application, financial transaction, or legal proceeding I engage in is still tainted by Media24’s false reporting.
The damage is not historical—it is ongoing, because online media does not disappear.

By failing to respond, the Press Council is actively facilitating the defamation and reputational harm caused by Media24.

The Press Council’S Evasion Tactics & Their Attempt To Delay Accountability

When the second submission was finally acknowledged, instead of taking immediate action, the Press Council shifted the goalposts. They claimed that my complaint needed to be resubmitted in a different format, demanding that I rewrite and restructure the entire complaint according to a new set of criteria.

I spent an entire month—working 18 hours a day—restructuring the complaint to fit their new requirements.
Despite complying fully with their requests, I still received no response after resubmission.
This delay tactic was not innocent—it was a deliberate attempt to wear me down, hoping I would abandon the complaint altogether.
By dragging the process out for months, they ensured that Media24’s false articles continued to cause maximum damage.
By demanding unnecessary revisions, they forced me to expend enormous time and effort—knowing that most individuals would give up.

This was not procedural diligence—this was an attempt to avoid confronting the gravity of Media24’s misconduct.

Conclusion: The Press Council’S Inaction Is An Endorsement Of Media24’S Lies

By failing to take action, the Press Council is protecting a media giant at the expense of justice and accountability. Their silence and bureaucratic stalling tactics have directly contributed to:

The continued public accessibility of defamatory articles.
The inability to correct or retract falsehoods that have been systematically disproven.
The ongoing destruction of my career, reputation, and ability to rebuild my life.

This is not just a media ethics failure—it is an institutional failure that proves how the Press Council is more interested in protecting corporate media interests than enforcing journalistic integrity.

The refusal to even initiate an investigation despite overwhelming evidence of false reporting raises serious questions:

Is the Press Council acting independently, or are they protecting Media24 from accountability?
Why have they ignored one of the most serious journalistic breaches in recent history?
How can they justify inaction when every claim made in the articles has been debunked?

The reality is clear: The Press Council has failed in its duty, just as Media24 failed in theirs.

The Next Steps: Exposing The Press Council’s Failure To Act

This second submission marks a turning point. The failure of the Press Council to act is now as much a scandal as Media24’s false reporting.

Media24’s articles were already indefensible—but now we have evidence that even independent regulatory bodies are unwilling to challenge them.
The fact that the Press Council still refuses to act, despite PSIRA’s criminal charges and SAPS investigations, proves that they are not neutral arbiters—they are enablers.
Their silence will now be put under scrutiny, as they can no longer pretend they were unaware of the case.

This chapter exposes the full scale of the Press Council’s inaction and its devastating consequences, marking the moment where they too must be held to account.

The evidence is undeniable. Their failure to act is no longer excusable.

AMENDED COMPLAINT TO THE PRESS COUNCIL OMBUDSMAN: A COMPREHENSIVE AND UNPRECEDENTED SUBMISSION

The amended complaint submitted to the Press Council Ombudsman on 29 October 2024 is the culmination of an extraordinary effort to address the extensive, deliberate, and deeply damaging breaches of the Press Code by Media24 and its affiliated publications, including News24, Netwerk24, Rapport, Die Burger, and IOL.

This submission is not simply an expansion of the initial complaint filed on 22 August 2024—it represents a complete restructuring, following extensive engagement with the Ombudsman’s office, resulting in a meticulously organized and legally precise document designed to ensure the strongest possible case is made. This amended complaint removes all ambiguity, distils 119 fabricated, false, and misleading statements, and presents the irrefutable evidence necessary to establish gross ethical and professional misconduct by Media24.

The Scale Of The Violations And The Need For This Submission

From August 2022 to February 2023, Media24 engaged in an unrelenting campaign of defamation and misinformation, publishing at least six primary articles, with eleven republished versions, across multiple platforms and print editions.

The articles:

Repeatedly presented fabrications as fact, with the false narrative constructed entirely by one source: Wouter de Swardt private investigator hired by Keith and Inge Broad, with a clear financial agenda to unlawfully seize the property.
Omitted all exculpatory evidence, including multiple court rulings, video evidence, financial records, and sworn affidavits that directly contradicted their claims.

Systematically denied the right of reply, failing to contact me even once before publication or after. When I later provided detailed, substantiated corrections, they were dismissed outright.

Failed to verify even the most basic facts, despite ample documentation being available at the time of publication.

As documented in this complaint, these violations go far beyond journalistic negligence—they represent a deliberate and reckless disregard for the truth, weaponizing media influence to serve the financial and legal interests of private individuals.

The Amended Complaint: Structure And Content

To ensure maximum clarity and effectiveness, the amended complaint has been condensed and restructured, resulting in a single, cohesive submission that:

Reduces the original 665-page submission into a 14-page core complaint document, ensuring all violations are clearly defined and substantiated.
Separates key sections for accessibility, allowing the Ombudsman to focus on the most pressing violations.
Includes a fully indexed annexure, providing direct documentary evidence, analysis, and context to support every claim made.

This submission includes the following critical sections:

Introduction – Outlining the complaint, the parties involved, and the Press Code violations at the heart of the case.
Violations of the Press Code – Providing a detailed breakdown of the ethical breaches committed by Media24, backed by direct examples from the articles.
Media24’s Refusal to Engage – Documenting every attempt made to correct the record, all of which were ignored or dismissed without justification.
The Evidence – Presenting a comprehensive compilation of materials, including court rulings, witness statements, WhatsApp and email records, financial records, and analysis of Media24’s selective reporting.
The Impact – Detailing the catastrophic consequences of Media24’s false reporting, including financial ruin, loss of liberty, permanent reputational harm, and ongoing security threats.

Conclusion and Request for Action – Urging the Press Council to impose the highest possible Tier 3 sanctions against Media24 for their reckless, malicious, and damaging conduct.

The Press Council’s Role And Media24’s Unprecedented Evasion

The Press Council is South Africa’s highest authority for journalistic ethics. Its mandate is to hold media organizations accountable when they violate public trust by engaging in:

Deliberate Or Reckless Dissemination Of Falsehoods
Refusal To Correct Or Retract Damaging Misinformation
Denial Of The Right Of Reply In Matters Of Severe Reputational Harm

This amended complaint sets a precedent due to the scale and severity of the violations committed by Media24. As documented in the submission, in over a decade of Press Council cases, there has never been a complaint involving such an overwhelming volume of fabrications, violations, and deliberate omissions.

Media24’s Ongoing Refusal To Acknowledge The Harm Caused

Beyond the initial failures of journalistic integrity, Media24’s continued refusal to engage serves as a direct continuation of their misconduct:

No response was given to my initial complaint for weeks—requiring repeated follow-ups.
After a month of continuous work reducing the submission as requested, the Ombudsman’s office never provided any further feedback, let alone initiated an investigation.
Despite my persistent attempts to engage and my willingness to provide all necessary documentation, the Press Council’s investigation has yet to proceed.

Had Media24’s conduct been investigated when first raised, the matter would already be resolved. Instead, their refusal to correct or retract their false claims means:

The false articles remain live across multiple platforms, continuing to inflict severe reputational and financial harm.
The damage is as severe today as it was when first published, due to the enduring power of online media vs. print media.
Rather than seeking to minimize harm, Media24 has actively chosen to let the falsehoods persist indefinitely allowing the damage to compound over time.

The Unprecedented Damage Caused By Media24’S Conduct

Before the articles – I owned six properties generating over R20 million per year, alongside moveable assets exceeding R30 million.
After the articles – I lost everything, including my business, assets, home, and ability to earn an income.
I was unlawfully imprisoned for three months, with the articles cited as justification for my arrest.
To this day, I am unable to secure housing or rebuild my life—as long as the false allegations remain unchallenged.

This complaint is not just about seeking justice for myself—it is about holding South Africa’s largest media organization accountable for its reckless abuse of power.

A Defining Test Of The Press Council’S Authority

Media24’s misconduct in this case is not an isolated incident—it represents a fundamental failure of South Africa’s largest media organization to uphold basic ethical standards.

This complaint challenges the very integrity of the Press Code itself:

If these violations go unpunished, the Press Code becomes meaningless—giving media outlets free rein to fabricate allegations without consequence.
If Media24 is not held accountable, it sets a dangerous precedent—where deliberate misinformation can be weaponized against individuals for personal and financial gain.
If the Press Council refuses to act, it effectively legitimizes one of the most egregious examples of media misconduct in recent history.

This submission stands as an unprecedented, evidence-backed case of media malpractice—and it demands a decisive and unequivocal response.

Conclusion: A Demand For The Strongest Sanction Possible

Given the extraordinary scale of the violations, the severity of the harm inflicted, and Media24’s ongoing refusal to take accountability, this complaint calls for the highest available sanction under the Press Council’s jurisdiction:

A Full Retraction Of The Articles
A Formal Public Apology And Correction
A Tier 3 Sanction For Deliberate And Reckless Violations Of The Press Code

This is not merely a request for redress—it is a demand for a precedent-setting ruling that ensures no South African media outlet can ever again engage in this level of misconduct without consequence.

PRESS COUNCIL FOLLOW-UP: THE FOURTH AND FINAL ATTEMPT TO SECURE AN INVESTIGATION

A Final Plea For Accountability: The Press Council’S Deliberate Stonewalling

This fourth submission, sent on 23 November 2024, represents the final attempt to compel the Press Council to take action on one of the most egregious cases of media malpractice in recent South African history. Despite submitting a fully revised, extensively evidenced complaint, dedicating over 1,500 hours of work, and complying with every procedural demand made by the Ombudsman, the Press Council has continued to evade its responsibility, refusing to initiate an investigation into Media24’s deliberate campaign of falsehoods, defamation, and reputational destruction.

This letter is not merely a follow-up—it is an exposé of the Press Council’s failure to uphold the very standards it was created to enforce.

A Complaint That Should Have Been Investigated Immediately

By November 2024, my case had evolved into one of the most substantial and well-evidenced complaints ever submitted to the Press Council. This final submission reiterates the scale and severity of the breaches, including:

Over 120 proven falsehoods, repeated across 21 articles in six major publications.
More than 320 direct violations of the Press Code, spanning fabrications, misleading statements, and selective omissions.
Multiple articles still live across Media24 platforms, ensuring that the harm remains active and ongoing.
Had the Press Council taken even the most basic steps upon receiving the first complaint on 22 August 2024, this matter would have been resolved by now. Instead, their inaction has allowed:
The defamatory articles to remain unchallenged, perpetuating ongoing damage to my reputation and future.
Media24 to continue evading accountability, despite overwhelming evidence of journalistic misconduct.
Those who orchestrated the fraudulent case against me to remain shielded from scrutiny.

Unprecedented Effort, Met With Indifference

To comply with every possible procedural requirement, I:

Restructured the complaint into an indexed and digestible format, dividing it into four clear sections: Introduction, Violations, Communications, and Evidence.
Condensed the original complaint to 14 core pages, while maintaining the necessary detail to prove the violations.
Created a fully categorized index of falsehoods and breaches, breaking them down by level of fabrication.
Provided irrefutable supporting documentation, including court rulings, WhatsApp and email evidence, and forensic media analysis.
Despite this extraordinary level of diligence, the Press Council has continued to stall, failing to provide:
A timeline for when they will take action.
A justification for their repeated delays.
Even the basic courtesy of a formal acknowledgment of the complaint’s urgency.

By contrast, in cases involving far less severe breaches, the Press Council has taken swift and decisive action—further reinforcing the suspicion that Media24 is being shielded from scrutiny due to its political and commercial influence.

The Ongoing Damage: Why Every Day Of Delay Matters

Unlike print media, where errors fade with time, online articles remain permanently accessible, ensuring that the false allegations against me continue to shape public perception indefinitely.

Every job application, financial opportunity, and legal proceeding is sabotaged by Media24’s lies.
I remain unable to normalize my immigration status, as these articles present a reputational barrier to visa approvals.
My ability to secure legal representation is severely impaired, as attorneys cite the need for reputational repair before taking on my case.
Even my personal safety remains at risk, as the media narrative has emboldened those responsible for orchestrating my persecution.

Had the Press Council acted in August 2024, this damage could have been minimized. Instead, their inaction has actively allowed the harm to continue and escalate.

The Press Council’s Double Standard: Shielding Media24 From Accountability

A review of recent Press Council rulings shows that:

Cases with far less severe breaches have resulted in formal reprimands, corrections, and retractions.
Complaints that lack even a fraction of the evidence I have provided have been taken seriously and acted upon.
Media24 itself has been sanctioned in previous cases—yet in this case, where the violations are exponentially more severe, no action has been taken.

This raises critical and deeply troubling questions:

Is the Press Council truly independent, or is it influenced by corporate media interests?
Why is a case involving more than 320 Press Code violations not being prioritized?
What justification can the Ombudsman provide for ignoring the strongest complaint they have likely ever received?

These questions are not rhetorical—they demand immediate and transparent answers.

The Broader Implications: This Is About More Than One Case

This complaint does not just expose a singular act of media misconduct—it exposes a system-wide failure of accountability in South African journalism.

If Media24 is allowed to fabricate an entire case against an individual without consequences, it sets a precedent for all media outlets to do the same.
If the Press Council refuses to act, it signals that journalistic ethics are optional, rather than enforceable.
If the largest media corporation in the country can defame, destroy, and then ignore demands for correction, then no South African is safe from media abuse.

This case is not just about me—it is about the integrity of the press, the credibility of media oversight, and the right of every citizen to demand truth from those who claim to serve the public interest.

Conclusion: A Deliberate Act Of Institutional Failure

By ignoring this complaint, the Press Council is not just failing in its duty—it is actively complicit in the ongoing defamation and reputational destruction enabled by Media24.

Every single procedural excuse has been addressed, leaving no valid reason for further delay.
The evidence provided is irrefutable, and the scale of the violations is undeniable.
The refusal to act is now as scandalous as Media24’s original misconduct.
This follow-up letter is a final warning—a demand for action, transparency, and accountability.
If the Press Council continues to evade its responsibility, the next step will be to expose its failure publicly, through legal action, investigative journalism, and international media scrutiny.
If Media24 remains unchallenged, this case will serve as a permanent indictment of South Africa’s media regulation system.
If these articles are not retracted, the reputational, financial, and legal damage they continue to cause will be directly attributable to the Press Council’s refusal to act.

The time for excuses is over. The Press Council must act—immediately and decisively.

NEXT CHAPTER ....

THE COLLECTION

The Truth Suid Afrika

Discover the untold stories behind the false headlines of the Media24 articles. Uncover the truth behind the fabricated content of those articles. Understand the motivation that powered the consortium's actions.

'THE COLLECTION - READ MORE

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CHAPTER SUMMARY PART 5

The Truth Suid Afrika

'CHAPTER SUMMARY PART 5' - READ MORE

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"Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere."

- Martin Luther King Jr.

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"Truth has power. And if we all gravitate toward similar ideas, maybe we do so because those ideas are true and written deep within us." - Richard Bach

CHAPTER SUMMARIES PART FOUR: WEAPONISATION OF SAPS & THE MEDIA BY MEDIA24

Chapter Summaries Index – Overview of Key Campaign Pages

CHAPTER SUMMARIES, CHAPTER MENU AND SUBJECT INDEX

THE PURPOSE & USE OF THE ARTICLES: HOW MEDIA24 WAS USED TO MANUFACTURE A FALSE NARRATIVE

The Role Of The Articles: A Means To Circumvent Legal Scrutiny

Establishing False Credibility Through Media Endorsement

The Specific Articles And Their Role In The Conspiracy

The Selective Omission Of Exculpatory Facts

The Role Of Anonymous Sources: Hiding Conflicts Of Interest

Articles As A Pretext For Further Persecution

Conclusion: Media24’S Role In A Criminally Engineered Narrative

THE ARTICLES: A COORDINATED DEFAMATION CAMPAIGN BY MEDIA24

The Scale Of The Misinformation: More Than Just Six Articles

Key Articles And Their Role In The Defamation Campaign

"A Briton who has allegedly been renting out guesthouses that do not belong to him... has finally been arrested while hiding in the Upper Cape."

"Briton who allegedly defrauded people with accommodation, gets bail."

"Second arrest for Cape Town luxury accommodation 'scammer' suspected of pocketing millions."

Media24’S Systematic Breach Of The South African Press Code

The Impact Of This Coordinated Defamation

Conclusion: Media24’S Role In Enabling A Legal And Financial Hit Job

ANALYSIS OF THE ARTICLES: HOW MEDIA24 PUBLISHED A FABRICATED NARRATIVE TO LEGITIMIZE A CONSPIRACY

How Media24 Became An Extension Of De Swardt’S Campaign

Key Falsehoods & How They Contradict Evidence

The Press Code Violations & The Legal Ramifications

The Consequences Of This Journalistic Failure

Conclusion: Deliberate Smear Campaign Disguised As Journalism

CRIMINAL COMPLICITY OF MEDIA24 & NEWS24: A CASE STUDY IN DELIBERATE MEDIA MANIPULATION

The Weaponization Of The Press To Facilitate Criminal Objectives

A Coordinated Campaign Of Disinformation

The Legal Implications: Complicity In Criminal Conduct

The Broader Implications: Media As An Instrument Of State And Corporate Corruption

Conclusion: An Unprecedented Abuse Of Media Power

THE "INGE" BROAD NEWS24 INTERVIEW: FABRICATIONS, OMISSIONS & INTENTIONAL MISDIRECTION WITH PURPOSE

A Lease Agreement Built On Deception

Fabricated Claims Of “Tenant Damage”

Blocking Rental Income To Engineer A False Narrative

The Intentional Creation Of “Victims”

The High Court Order And The December Arrest

Conclusion: A Case Of Calculated Fraud

LANDLORD LIES & THE FINANCIAL MOTIVE EXPOSED: A FORENSIC BREAKDOWN OF THE EVIDENCE

The False Claims vs. The Proven Reality

The Rental Income Explosion: The Data That Proves the Truth

Specific Examples of the Rental Income Gains

The Capital Value Increases: The Properties Became More Valuable

Conclusion: The Financial Motive Behind the Lies & Unlawful Evictions

DEFAMATION AS A WEAPON: WEAPONIZING THE MEDIA

Fabrication Of Facts & Absence Of Due Diligence

Selective Reporting & Omission Of Critical Facts

Timing Of Articles & Media Collusion With Private Interests

Exploitation Of The Legal Process & False Legitimization

The Lasting Harm: Perpetual Damage & The Digital Footprint

Conclusion: Media24’S Failure & The Need For Accountability

FABRICATED, FALSE, AND MISLEADING: HOW MEDIA24 CREATED A FALSE NARRATIVE TO JUSTIFY MALICIOUS PROSECUTION

Identifying The Fabrications: The Media24 Falsehood Table

The False Claims Vs. Verifiable Evidence

Media24’S Collusion With My Adversaries

The Use Of Fabricated Media As A Tool For Malicious Prosecution

Press Code Violations And Legal Implications

Conclusion: The Deliberate Fabrication Of A Criminal Narrative

THE ROLE OF MEDIA24 & THE FABRICATED NARRATIVE: AN EXAMINATION OF FALSE REPORTING AND MALICIOUS PROSECUTION

Media24’S Role In Perpetuating Falsehoods

The December Arrest: Media As A Tool For Malicious Prosecution

How The Media Served As An Instrument Of Defamation

Complicity Vs. Deception: The Case Against Media24

A Deliberate Refusal To Acknowledge The Truth

Conclusion: A Precedent Of Media-Enabled Persecution

THE IMPACT: PROFOUND AND CONTINUING LOSS, SUFFERING, AND DAMAGE

The Scale Of The Losses

The Destruction Of My Business & Financial Devastation

The Weaponization Of False Criminal Charges To Justify Theft

The Impact On My Reputation And Professional Future

The Loss Of My Home, Liberty, And Dignity

The Impact On My Immigration Status

The Devastating Emotional And Psychological Toll

The Urgency Of Resolution

Conclusion: A Crime Without Consequence—Unless It Is Stopped

MY ATTEMPTS TO REACH OUT TO MEDIA24: MEDIA24'S DELIBERATE REFUSAL TO ENGAGE

Repeated, Good-Faith Efforts To Set The Record Straight

News24’S Contradictory And Inaccurate Response

The Legal And Ethical Violations Of Media24’S Reporting

CHAPTER SUMMARIES PART FOUR:
WEAPONISATION OF SAPS & THE MEDIA BY MEDIA24