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Statement from Stephan Welz, MD Strauss & Co

29 May 2014

This week, I was quoted in a Times Live article on the subject of the current murder trial of photographer, Zwelethu Mthethwa.

Given the wider context of the plague of violence in South Africa, particularly violence towards women and those most vulnerable in our society, I see how my comments may have been deeply offensive. This was absolutely not my intention and I apologise unreservedly.

Under no circumstances do I or any of my colleagues at Strauss & Co condone the actions of which Zwelethu Mthethwa has been accused. Violence of any kind is abhorrent to me and my deepest condolences go out to the family and community of the victim. I hope the full weight of our justice system will be brought to bear in this situation.

The comments made to Times Live were given in a very narrow context and I’m sorry for the hurt that they have caused.

Please send any questions you may have to ct@straussart.co.za and we’ll address them as soon as we can.

Thank you.

Stephan Welz