An investigation conducted by the Independent Complaints Directorate (ICD) has resulted in a conviction and subsequent sentencing of an officer based at the Ekurhuleni Metro Police Department (EMPD). The ICD investigated a case of murder against an EMPD police officer, Jabulani Ben Chili, 37, who is stationed at the Brakpan precinct. The policeman shot and killed Andries Simango, 31, on 10 March 2009 in Selcourt, Springs.
It is alleged that at about 14h40 on the day of the incident, two EMPD members based at Brakpan were driving along Reintfontein Road, Selcourt in a Jetta 5 when a truck that was in front of them drove pass a red traffic light. The policemen followed the truck which stopped next to Rely Metals.
The officer approached the truck driver who indicated that the truck had faulty brakes. Whilst the truck driver was still talking to the officer, a passenger (deceased) in the truck went out to urinate on the side of the road. While the deceased was urinating the EMPD officer approached the deceased and informed him that he was under arrest for urinating in public.
The officer touched the victim on the shoulder and a struggle ensued, which led to the deceased running away. The officer took out his service pistol and fired one shot that hit the deceased. The deceased collapsed a short distance away from where the officer was standing.
The life of the officer was not under threat as the deceased did not have a weapon in his possession. The policeman was arrested at the scene and he had no visible injuries. The officer appeared at Springs Regional Court on Wednesday, 18 August 2010 for trial. He was found guilty of culpable homicide and sentenced to four (4) years imprisonment suspended for five years.
For enquiries contact:
Mr Moses Dlamini
National Spokesperson
082 809 1927
Metro Police officer convicted of culpable homicide
