eMBALENHLE – Basotho foreign nationals said they are sick and tired of bribing police officers.
This came after their personal belongings, including passports, clothes and utensils, were allegedly burnt by police officials on Thursday, 21 May.
They said three police vehicles arrived and officers forcefully entered their shacks and smashed everything they could find.
They said they ran into the nearest veld the police vehicles arrived.
“We ran away because we know that when the police catch us, they will demand money.
“Every time they catch us, they ask for our passports and if you can not produce one, they demand money,” said a foreign national.
They said they have lost faith in and respect for the local police.
They said at times when there are special operations, the information is usually leaked by police officials to those who bribe them.
“Even during Operation Fiela, we were treated like non human beings by the police.
“Police officers saw me in Secunda and demanded my passport.
“My passport was at home and the officers demanded R500 from me and a friend.
“When officers are broke, they go on a raid.”
Most of the Basothos said they know the corrupt police officers and can identify them if given a chance.
They intended to taken the matter up with the station commander, Col Maria Sibanyoni.
The Ridge Times contacted Col Sibayoni who said people must report corrupt police officers.
She said she can not comment about the burnt items of the foreign nationals, but will investigate.
“I really do not know about any raid.
“However even during any raids or operations, our members are not supposed to abuse their authority.”
This was not the first time that foreign nationals have complained about being bribed.
During the African Dialogue that was held at the Villas Hotel recently, Ethiopians and Somaly nationals also raised their concerns about police officers asking for bribes.
They said some of the police officers do not even pay for what they take in their shops.
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