incident
5 June 2006
The Independent Complaints Directorate (ICD) arrested two notorious police
officers whom are allegedly involved in an incident of attempted murder
involving a civilian in Kanyamazane in Mpumalanga province.
The incident occurred on Monday, 22 May 2006, in Msogwaba Trust, Pienaar in
Mpumalanga, where it is alleged that two members from South African Police
Service (SAPS) Kanyamazane, were patrolling and conducting a stop and search
operation in the said area. It is alleged that while conducting their operation
the said suspect police officers confronted Mr Vusi Manana and an argument
ensued between him and the police officers.
It is further alleged that the suspect police officers suddenly took out
their firearms and both fired several shots towards Mr Manana and as such he
was severely injured on both legs. After the said shooting incident, the police
officers left him lying on the ground for death without ensuring that he
received necessary medical attention. The victimâs family managed to transport
him to the local clinic for a medical attention.
It is further alleged that the said suspect police officers overheard that
the victim was receiving medical attention at the local clinic, and they
subsequently went to the clinic and arrested Mr Manana. He was charged with
interfering with the police members while performing their duties. However it
must be mentioned that he was only charged after the suspect police officers
received information that the victim wanted to lay attempted murder charges
against them accordingly.
The victim was detained in SAPS Kanyamazane and appeared at the Kanyamazane
Magistrateâs Court on Wednesday, 24 May 2006. He was released on warning. Mr
Manana also managed to open an attempted murder case against the said
officers.
The ICD took charge of an investigation on Tuesday, 23 May 2006. A
recommendation that the two suspect police officers be suspended has been
forwarded to the SAPS Management accordingly.
The two suspect police officers will appear at the Kabokweni Magistrateâs
Court on Monday, 5 June 2006.
We have finalised our investigation and the case docket will be forwarded
with our recommendations to the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP).
We wish to reiterate that we will not tolerate any involvement of police
officers in criminality. This is an example of some of the unbelievable actions
committed by some rogue elements within the police service which confirms the
need for monitoring by an external body.
The ICD will continue to ensure that policing in our country takes place
within a human rights ethic and that those officers who do not uphold the rule
of law are held accountable for their actions.
Enquiries: Steve Mabona
ICD National Spokesperson
Cell: 082 809 1927
Issued by: Independent Complaints Directorate
5 June 2006
