Alison Botha’s story is one of unimaginable survival and resilience. In December 1994, at the age of 27, she was kidnapped in Port Elizabeth, South Africa, and subjected to a brutal attack that would leave her fighting for her life. Botha was abducted, raped, and nearly decapitated, yet she managed to survive against all odds to share her story with the world.
On the evening of December 18, 1994, Alison was returning home after spending time with friends. As she parked her car, she was approached by Frans Du Toit, who threatened her with violence. He claimed he only wanted to borrow her car, but his intentions were far more sinister. Du Toit forced his way into her vehicle, and soon after, Theuns Krugeras joined them. The two men took Alison to a secluded area where the unimaginable occurred.
During the assault, Alison was subjected to horrific violence, including being slashed in the neck 16 times, which nearly resulted in decapitation. She recalled the agonizing moment when she realized she had to play dead to survive. “I tried to hold my breath but I realized I had no control over my breathing,” she recounted. Her attackers, believing she was dead, left her for dead, but her will to live prevailed.
After suffering over 50 stab wounds, Alison managed to push herself to the road where she was subsequently discovered by a passerby, Tiaan Eilerd, a veterinarian who assessed her critical condition. He repositioned her thyroid, which had been severely damaged during the attack, and called for help. By 02:45 AM, just an hour and a half after her abduction, Alison was receiving emergency medical care.
Following extensive surgery, Alison was moved to intensive care. As the news of her attack spread, it was revealed that both of her attackers were already out on bail for previous rape charges. Both Du Toit and Krugeras were identified as Satanists and ultimately received life sentences for their crimes. They entered guilty pleas to charges of kidnapping, rape, and attempted murder. In 1995, they were sentenced without the possibility of parole.
Despite the trauma she endured, Alison Botha became a powerful advocate for victims of violence. Her story is chronicled in her book, I Have Life, and in the film “Alison”, which was released in August 2023. Through her advocacy, she has inspired countless individuals, emphasizing the importance of resilience and the power of choice in overcoming adversity.
Alison’s impact extends beyond her personal narrative. In recognition of her courage, she has received several accolades, including the Rotarian Paul Harris Award for Courage Beyond the Norm and Femina magazine’s Woman of Courage award. Moreover, she was named Port Elizabeth’s Citizen of the Year. In a recent statement, she expressed her hope that sharing her journey would inspire others to find strength in their struggles.
On July 4, 2023, both Du Toit and Krugeras were granted parole after serving only 28 years of their life sentences, a decision that profoundly affected Alison. She expressed her shock and fear on social media, stating, “The day I hoped and prayed would never come.” Her advocacy work has been instrumental in ensuring that violent offenders are held accountable and kept away from society.
Alison’s story is not just one of survival; it is a testament to the human spirit’s ability to endure and rise above even the most horrific circumstances. Today, she balances her advocacy with her role as a single mother to two sons, continuing to inspire others with her message of hope and resilience. As she moves forward, Alison Botha remains a powerful voice for change and empowerment, reminding everyone of the strength that lies within.
