EMPD alleges SAPS interference during drug arrest in Brakpan
It is alleged that two off-duty SAPS members instructed the EMPD officers to release the suspect. The incident has been escalated to SAPS management for further investigation.
The EMPD has accused SAPS of interference during a drug bust in Brakpan, which saw the arrest of a 36-year-old man for possession and possible dealing in illicit substances, and the seizure of drugs with a combined street value of over R200 000.
According to the EMPD, the man was arrested on October 21 following an intelligence-driven operation by the EMPD’s Community Liaison Unit, in collaboration with SAPS Ekurhuleni Crime Intelligence.
The EMPD explained that upon arrival at a residence in Brakpan, a man was found on the premises and permission was requested to conduct a search.
During the search, a red carry bag was found concealed inside a stove, which contained 15 packets of khat, 12 packets of crystal meth, and one ziplock bag of khat.
A scale and R10 230 in cash, believed to be proceeds from the sale of drugs, were also found.
The EMPD claims that during the processing of the scene, two individuals, who identified themselves as off-duty SAPS members, arrived in a white state Honda motor vehicle and instructed EMPD officers to release the suspect and abandon the operation, claiming to be acting on the instruction of a police general, whom they allegedly refused to name.
It is further alleged the pair did not present any formal documentation or lawful authorisation to intervene.
EMPD officers maintained control of the scene, concluded the search and effected the arrest in accordance with standard operating procedures.
The alleged interference did not compromise the operation.
The EMPD stated that the incident has been formally escalated to SAPS management for further investigation and to determine the authenticity and authority of the individuals involved.
The suspect was arrested and detained at the Brakpan Police Station. He was expected to appear before the Brakpan Magistrate’s Court.
The EMPD reiterated that interference with police duties, law enforcement operations or the management and preservation of a crime scene will not be tolerated.
Everyone, including law enforcement officials, is expected to respect lawful police procedures and allow officers to perform their duties without undue interference.
Ekurhuleni District police spokesperson Captain Nelda Sekgobela confirmed that a case was opened and a suspect arrested for possession and dealing in illicit substances.
With regards to the allegations of police interference, Sekgobela referred the Brakpan Herald back to the EMPD.
