 The Vrye Weekblad broke the news of the Vlakplaas Death Squads and the role of its commander, Dirk Coetzee.In 1999, Du Preez was dismissed by the SABC from his position as the executive editor of "Special Assignment", an investigative television show, after he objected when a documentary was barred from being shown.Though initially it was simply stated that his contract would not be renewed, the SABC later said he had been dismissed for gross insubordination.