Central driver claims TMPD officers assaulted him, Ipid investigates
The now hostile confrontation became physical when Molefe says he was pepper sprayed and punched in the mouth amidst the verbal scuffles.
Independent Police Investigative Directorate (Ipid) is investigating a case of assault involving a Pretoria motorist and a TMPD officer.
The alleged assault is said to have taken place on May 29 between 12:30-13:30 on Kgosi Mampuru Street, near the prison.
Molefe Tsoku (39) recounted the incident to Rekord.
Tsoku, a driver for a local logistics company said he was travelling on the road when he was pulled over by metro police.
He was conversing with one officer when another joined the interaction.
“After I was speaking to the one officer, another came out of the blue,” Tsoku said.
“I didn’t even see where he came from and just interrupted me. He began being very aggressive and shouting at me, and I in turn responded to him.”
The now hostile confrontation became physical when Molefe said he was pepper sprayed and punched in the mouth.
“In all my years of driving, I’ve never experienced something like this.”
According to Molefe, he videotaped the incident but the footage was deleted allegedly by the officers.
Molefe has since opened a case at the Pretoria Central police station.
Ipid spokesperson Robbie Raburabu said that the case of assault was reported to Ipid and is being investigated.
Rekord approached the Central police for comment on the matter but was referred to the TMPD.
The TMPD has confirmed that it is aware of the matter and is investigating.
“We advise motorists to report such matters to us to obtain statements from the members involved and the complainant so we investigate it internally,” said TMPD spokesperson Senior Superintendent Isaac Mahamba.
“We are obliged after receiving such complaints to report them to Ipid for an independent investigation and as the department, we will comply with its request if the need arises.”
Residents can call 012 358 7095/083 657 2998 to voice their grievances.
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