Just a few days ago, a police constable raped an alleged shoplifter in a police van. At this time, the rapist is being prosecuted.
This past weekend, the alleged rapist was arrested followed by an investigation by the Independent Police Investigative Directorate after allegations came to light that the officer raped the man in the police van.
The provincial spokesperson relayed that the fitness of the individual to be a police officer is currently underway. As this situation comes to light she notes that these kinds of acts destroy the relationship between SAPS and the community.
Moreover, a speedy suspension of the police constable was welcomed as it will help for an in-depth and thorough interdisciplinary process.
“While we don’t want to influence the internal process in any way, the committee has, since its inception, spoken strongly against the abuse of power and authority by the very people that are supposed to enforce the law.”
She also added that the police should enforce the law and are also subjected to that law.
“The police aren’t the law. They must enforce the law and are also subjected to the law”
Joematt-Petterson
In light of this predicament at hand, SAPS is working diligently to be rid of criminals such as the aforementioned to regain the credibility of the service.
