Ekurhuleni metro cop, guard arrested for alleged murder of Vosloorus man

Watchdog body, the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (Ipid), said on Monday it had arrested an Ekurhuleni metro officer and a security guard for the alleged murder of a Vosloorus man. 

The arrests come amid public outcry over heavy-handed tactics employed by South African Police Service (SAPS) and South African National Defence Force (SANDF) members who have been deployed to ensure citizens comply with regulations during the country’s 21-day coronavirus lockdown. 

According to Ipid spokesperson Sontaga Seisa, the man died on Sunday when Ekurhuleni metro police officers were “patrolling the area and noticed people drinking liquor in a tavern”. 

Minors also injured during shooting

“The police were enforcing the COVID-19 lockdown regulations. It is alleged that officers tried to effect the arrest, [when] some people together with some community members attacked them. In retaliation the police then discharged the rubber bullets. It is further alleged that the deceased was followed to his home verandah where he was fatally shot at.”

Seisa said it was reported that four minors, aged five, six, and 11-year-old twins, were also injured during the shooting, and were taken to a nearby medical facility for treatment. 

He said Ipid investigators attended the scene on Sunday and returned on Monday to continue investigations. 

Ongoing investigation

“[On Sunday] evening, our investigators identified two male persons who were eventually arrested for murder and attempted murder. The arrested male persons have been identified as an Ekurhuleni Metro Police Department officer, aged 34, and a 45-year-old civilian who is believed to be a private security officer.

“They are expected to appear before Boksburg Regional Court on Tuesday 31 March 2020. Our investigation is ongoing.” 

— African News Agency (ANA); Editing by Desiree Erasmus