Pretoria - The South Africa Police Service says the statement issued by the Marikana Commission of Inquiry is both “unfortunate” and “highly prejudicial” to the SAPS.
On Thursday, the Commission issued a statement where they indicated that over the past ten days the evidence leaders have obtained access to the computer hard drives of members of the SAPS and have obtained copies of documents, to which the SAPS previously said were not in existence.
“In the light of the documents which we have found, it is also necessary for us to work through all of the new material in our possession, and to obtain access to additional hard drives and electronic records, before we are ready to continue with the hearing. It will also be necessary for the SAPS legal team to consult with their clients on these matters,” the Farlam Commission of Inquiry said.
The Commission indicated that it will stand down until September 25 for the SAPS legal team to consult with their clients on these matters, and for the evidence leaders to continue their investigation.
SAPS spokesperson Lieutenant General Solomon Makgale says they have cooperated fully and without reservation, throughout the duration of the Commission.
“The SAPS legal team would have preferred, as it has always been the case, to have been given an opportunity to provide the required explanation prior to evidence leaders passing judgement on the matter.”
Mkgale said the evidence leaders undertake to give any and all answers to the concerns they have raised when the Commission resumes its work next week.
The inquiry was established by President Jacob Zuma to investigate the events from 9 - 16 August 2012, which led to the deaths of at least 44 people, more than 70 people being injured and approximately 250 people being arrested in Marikana.
It was supposed to report to President Zuma in February this year - but the deadline has been extended until October. – SAnews.gov.za
