Pretoria - The four police officers involved in the alleged shooting of a suspect in Krugersdorp have been handed notices of intention to suspend them, Gauteng police said on Monday.
The members - a sergeant and three constables - were arrested by the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) on Monday after a video of the alleged shooting emerged in the media over the weekend.
They are currently in custody.
“The four, who have been served in custody, have 48 hours whereby they must respond in writing and indicate why they should not be suspended. More suspensions against other members are also being considered,” Gauteng Police spokesperson Colonel Noxolo Kweza said.
During the incident, which happed on 19 October, it is alleged the four had responded to a complaint of a suspicious vehicle parked outside a business premises in Lewisham.
There were two people inside the vehicle.
On arrival at the scene, two members saw a Toyota Conquest, with two men inside.
As the members were approaching the vehicle, one of the occupants of the Toyota started shooting at the police, who then returned fire.
“Police called for backup and another police vehicle, which was in the nearby vicinity, responded. The driver of the Toyota sped off, while the other suspect escaped on foot. A car chase ensued and shots were fired. The suspect was shot and killed,” said Kweza.
The suspect has been identified as Khulekani Mpanza.
It has since emerged that the firearm used by the suspect was recovered and was allegedly stolen from a security guard in Moroka, Soweto.
“Police initially opened an inquest docket. However, the charges were later changed to murder after the footage surfaced,” said Kweza.
Acting National Police Commissioner Lieutenant-General General Khomotso Phahlane said law enforcement officers are there to keep law and order and this should not degenerate to violence.
“This calls for assertive policing as opposed to police brutality. As IPID is already investigating this matter, we intend to cooperate with them fully to unravel the mystery behind this inhumane slaying.” – SAnews.gov.za
