Leaders angry over man’s release

RESIDENTS of Musina have strongly criticised local police for releasing a suspected drug dealer whom they arrested during a patrol, and demanded an explanation from the South African Police Service.

“We found a Nigerian with drugs in his bag. We arrested him and called the police to charge him. To our surprise, we learned that they released him and registered the drugs,” said Mashudu Ndou, Musina street patrol leader.

Ndou said the community started patrolling last month due to concern over high crime rates including house breaking, theft of motor vehicles and other crimes. The move saw a dramatic decline in crime and low crime reported.

On September 7, they handed over an alleged Nigerian drug dealer to the police, but upon enquiry, they discovered that the suspect was freed without being charged.

It is alleged that police told street patrol leaders that they released the suspect because there was no complainant in the matter, but residents refused to believe this story, suspecting that police might have been bribed.

Ndou requested a formal meeting with the station commissioner to solicit an explanation about the move taken by the police.

Provincial police spokesperson, Col Ronél Otto confirmed that the suspect was released and that a case has been opened against two officers involved.

“We can confirm that the incident took place and a case of defeating ends of justice has been opened,” said Otto

She said disciplinary action will be taken against these officials.