Nkohlakalo man lays charges against traffic officers for an alleged assault
Speaking to Lowvelder Express, Malope alleged that the traffic officials, who were in full uniform, forcefully gained entrance to his yard and broke his gate and door.
Two Mbombela-based traffic officials caused a stir on social media after they were filmed assaulting and arresting a 33-year-old man from Nkohlakalo outside KaBokweni.
Tshwarelo Malope has laid charges against the two officials for allegedly assaulting him and damaging his property.
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“They told me they were there to arrest me for a traffic fine I did not pay in 2018. My question is, why was force used? Why did they take me from my home to the police half-naked?” he asked.
The incident happened at his home in Nkohlakalo at around 07:00 on June 11.
Malope said the officers assaulted him, dragged him from his house and transported him to KaBokweni Police Station.
He was later released and then opened a case of malicious damage to property and assault against the officers.
Malope said he was willing to fight tooth and nail to see those involved in the case prosecuted.
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Brig Leonard Hlathi, spokesperson for the provincial police, confirmed that a case of malicious damage to property and assault was opened at the station.
“According to information received, the traffic officials went to the victim’s house to arrest him after a warrant of arrest was issued from the traffic department.
It is alleged that the victim then resisted arrest and fought with the traffic officers. A case of assault and malicious damage to property was opened and the traffic officials’ as well as witnesses’ statements were obtained. The investigation is continuing,” he said.
Hlathi could, however, not be drawn to say whether or not traffic officials from municipalities in the province have the power or authority to carry out arrests.
