The Independent Police Investigative Directorate (Ipid) is probing the incident where a police firearm was discharged in public during the service-delivery protest in Emjindini Trust.
This resulted in one of the protesters, Vusimuzi Matsebula being shot and seriously wounded, allegedly with live ammunition. Moses Dlamini, Ipid national spokesman, confirmed the incident.
“Every time a police officer’s firearm has been discharged in public, we have to institute an investigation. In this case, I can confirm that one has been established and investigators are searching cartridges believed to have been used at the scene,” said Dlamini.
He also confirmed that a case of attempted murder might be opened, depending on the outcome.
The alleged live ammunition discharged by a police officer went through Matsebula’s hand and into his abdomen. He was rushed to Barberton General Hospital and then transferred to Rob Ferreira.
According to his sister, Thembile, Matsebula’s leg has been cuffed since he was admitted. This after police has opened a case of violent protest against him.
Ronnie Masilela, department of health spokesman said Matsebula was transferred back to Barberton General Hospital on June 17 and was in a stable condition. His sister claimed that soon after he was discharged on June 19, officials detained him at the police station.
“Even worse was that an officer we spoke to on the day told that we wouldn’t be able to see him until the next day, he appeared in the Magistrate’s Court,” said Thembile.
Matsebula made a brief appearance on June 20 and was released without being charged.
Meanwhile, the Democratic Alliance has welcomed the announcement by Ipid that it would investigate the allegations of police using live ammunition against the protesters.
James Sithole, DA member of provincial legislature shadowing the department of community safety, security and liaison, said while they welcomed investigators’ search for cartridges and projectiles, they were concerned over the time lapse since the incident, and the very real possibility of the scene being compromised.
“To this end, the party calls on any member of the public who may have information that could assist with this investigation, to come forward, so that the perpetrators can be brought to book. It is the duty of police to protect and uphold the rights of the country’s citizens, and any intolerance must be nipped in the bud,” said Sithole.
The EFF in Umjindi has also raised its concern over the shooting. Lucky Shongwe, a deployee of the party said it has noted with disgrace the inhumane treatment by the ANC-led Umjindi Municipality and SAPS members.
“We fully support the residents of Emjindini Trust on their grievances and we believe they are genuine. As much as we oppose the burning of properties and any illegal activities, we also want to make it clear to everyone that we will challenge all institutions involved in resolving the issue of lack service delivery and unemployment,” said Shongwe.