North West Premier Thandi Modise calls for investigation into journalist's alleged harassment, assault and arrest
North West Premier Thandi Modise has called on the Independent Police Investigative Directorate to investigate the alleged harassment, assault and arrest of Daily Sun journalist Ricky Dire who reportedly took pictures of police taking a bribe in Rustenburg on Saturday.
“Police have to work very hard on their image to inspire and regain public confidence after recent tragedies experienced in our province viewed by some as acts of police brutality. They should realise that their conduct is under public scrutiny and strive to be above reproach,” stressed Premier Modise.
In condemning the incident, Modise said that skirmishes with citizens who are purportedly determined to expose corrupt activities of a few rotten potatoes within the police service will not serve to improve the image of the police.
Dire allegedly took pictures of police receiving bribes from the owners of Red Dragon Trading who had phoned him before he was spotted by the police who bundled him into their police van, confiscated his cellphone and deleted the pictures. This however happened after he had sent one picture to his friend.
Police spokesperson Sergeant Kealeboga Molale confirmed that charges of intimidation, crimen injuria and resisting arrest were laid by the arresting police against Dire who had since been released from police custody.
Enquiries:
Lesiba Moses Kgwele, Spokesperson
Cell: 083 629 1987
Tel: 018 388 3705
Fax: 018 388 3157
E-mail: LKgwele@gmail.com
