SCPF calls on IPID to investigate
The officers returned to work after they were arrested for releasing a suspect who was charged for dealing in drugs.
Two police officers, stationed at the Sebenza SAPS, have been released from custody, much to the disappointment of the local community.
The officers were arrested and charged with extortion, corruption and impersonating a legal representative.
To this end, the Sebenza Community Policing Forum (SCPF) has sent an urgent request to the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID), asking it to investigate why the two officers were not suspended as the case is still ongoing.
The officers returned to work after they were arrested for releasing a suspect who was charged for dealing in drugs.
The SCPF chairperson, Mr Andrew Mosesi, said the officers are still on duty after they were released on a warning by the Kempton Park Magistrate’s Court.
“As if being released on a warning was not enough, the officers are back at work and have access to everything. Not only that, but they have to work with the officers who arrested them,” said Mr Mosesi.
He said the problem with this matter is that it sends the wrong message to the community.
“Our community refuses to report cases of corrupt police officers because they believe that nothing will be done about it. It is further demoralising for other police officers who are working hard to combat crime,” said Mr Mosesi.
On February 17, the NEWS reported that two officers were arrested after releasing a suspect who was arrested for dealing in drugs.
At the time, the Sebenza SAPS spokesperson, Sergeant Sharon Mahamba-Tsotsotso, said on February 5 a man was arrested for dealing in drugs.
“On Sunday, when the branch commander was checking the dockets that were supposed to go to court on Monday, he realised the suspect had been released,” said Sgt Tsotsotso.
The Provincial Deputy Head for the IPID, Mr Robbie Raburabu, said the arrest of the two officers was not reported in time to the IPID.
“It was only reported to us after the members had appeared in court. The IPID is tasked with investigating such cases and they are regarded as serious by this department,” said Mr Raburabu.
He said the case docket has since been forwarded to the Director of Public Prosecutions after the first appearance.
“The SAPS is in the process of suspending the members. I am unable to respond to all the questions at this moment as we don’t have all the facts as the docket is not available,” he said.
