Cradock Four: A Quest for Truth and Reconciliation

Nombuyiselo Mhlauli received her husband's body bearing over 25 stab wounds, a cut throat, and a missing hand. Sicelo Mhlauli was one of the Cradock Four, anti-apartheid activists abducted and murdered by apartheid-era forces in South Africa 40 years ago.

A new judicial inquiry into these killings began this month, driven by the relatives' quest for justice. Past investigations failed to hold anyone accountable, despite clear evidence and denial of amnesty to implicated officers by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, established under Nelson Mandela in the '90s.

The current inquiry could reveal uncomfortable truths for South Africa. Relatives of apartheid victims, frustrated by the government's inaction, have forced this new investigation, hoping to shine a light on unresolved atrocities and seek closure across racial lines.

(With inputs from agencies.)