Police arrest three of their own in connection with the murder of eMbalenhle motorist

The three police officers from eMbalenhle Police Station who were being investigated for the alleged stoning death of a man in eMbalenhle during the early hours of August 17, have been arrested on today (August 25).

The incident reportedly stems from a collision between two vehicles. When police arrived at the scene, one of the motorists involved in the accident fled on foot. The officers gave chase.

After catching the man, the officers allegedly threw stones at him. The injured man was later transported to hospital by ambulance where he died several hours later.

Constable Busi Mthethwa, spokesperson for the eMbalenhle Police, at the time confirmed that the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) is investigating the case.

The Mpumalanga SAPS last week confirmed the incident and expressed concern over the circumstances surrounding the victim’s death, describing it as mysterious.

However, in a statement today, Brigadier Donald Mdhluli said the three SAPS members, aged between 32 and 35, have been arrested following an intensive investigation led by both SAPS detectives and the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID).

They will appear in the Evander Magistrate’s Court tomorrow (August 26) to face charges of murder and defeating the ends of justice.

The Acting Provincial Commissioner of the SAPS in Mpumalanga, Major General Zeph Mkhwanazi has reiterated that those who decide to involve themselves in crime, they must know that there will be consequences without any fear or favour.

“This arrest of the three SAPS members demonstrates our unwavering commitment to defending the name of the SAPS. Our Code of Conduct clearly states how members should conduct themselves and never to betray the trust entrusted upon them. The law will take its course, and the community can rest assured that no one is above the law, ” said the General.