Metro police have committed to daily clean-up operations in the inner city with the aim of ridding it of illegal traders.
“The intention is not to manhandle the community but to ensure that everyone who contravenes bylaws is removed.” This is Metro police spokesperson, Wayne Minnaar’s stance with regards to the alleged use of brute force in a recent round of cleanups conducted in Jeppe Street.
Speaking to City Buzz, one informal trader, known only as Yolan, described the beating his brother endured at the hands of the Metro police. “They caught my brother and punched him so many times [that] he was bleeding,” he alleged.
Clearly disturbed, Yolan went as far as to question the Metro police’s intentions with regard to the confiscated items, claiming that they [traders] end up having to bribe the Metro police in order for them to have their goods returned.
Minnaar, however, maintained his conviction as far as the need for the use of force. “As long as the community complies with the Metro police and does not obstruct officers in the execution of their duties, there won’t be a need for the use of excessive force. We have a responsibility and should apply force where necessary,” he added.
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