‘White privilege’: Pistorius secretly released from prison to attend grandmother’s funeral

Convicted killer Oscar Pistorius was secretly released from his South African prison last week to attend the memorial service for his late grandmother.

Under armed surveillance, the disgraced Olympian was given four hours out of the maximum-security prison to join his family for Gerti Pistorius’ funeral.

While it is considered common practice for “low risk” prisoners to be temporarily released on compassionate leave, observers were quick to slam the "special treatment" given to the 29-year-old.

“It’s so nice being a white male murderer in South Africa,” Zamachibi Mthabela wrote.

“Disgusted! Many murderers get denied to even attend their own mothers' funerals. Only for the white rich murderers I see,” another woman claimed.

One of 26 grand children, the man formerly known as the 'blade runner', was at times raised by Gerti and husband Hendrik following the death of his mother at a young age.

Reportedly devastated by her death, Pistorius’ prompt application for compassionate leave was granted as a result of his “good conduct and behaviour”.

An elite team of armed prison guards accompanied Pistorius to Kleinkaap Boutique Hotel, in the capital Pretoria, at 8am last Friday.

They continued to flank the track star throughout the private service and gathering afterwards, before whisking him back to the overcrowded jail at midday.

"My beautiful & elegant Oumi has passed away," Pistorius' sister Aimee announced on Twitter.

"I will love and cherish the moments & memories we've shared."

Pistorius is currently serving a six year sentence after he was convicted of murdering girlfriend Reeva Steenkamp.

Throughtout the prolonged murder trial, Gerti Pistorius' affection for her beloved grandson did not wane, even after he was sentenced to six years for killing Ms Steenkamp.

"We pray for Oscar, we love Oscar, and we are very, very proud of Oscar. He is the same wonderful boy he always has been," she stated following his conviction.