Pretoria - The South African Police Service has dismissed reports that student leader Mcebo Dlamini was arrested or detained today.
The rumours were apparently fuelled by an SMS, allegedly from Dlamini to a radio show producer, in which it was claimed that he had been arrested.
“The South African Police Service would like to place it on record that Mcebo Dlamini was not arrested and/or detained at any police station in Gauteng or in any other province today,” said Acting National Police Commissioner Kgomotso Phahlane.
General Phahlane said it is unfortunate that rumours of Dlamini’s alleged arrest were disseminated via social media and the media before the facts were verified.
“This has led to several police members having to dedicate – and waste – their time on establishing beyond doubt that he had not been arrested or detained on any charge relating to the #FeesMustFall student protest or otherwise.”
He said when the South African Police Service did arrest Dlamini several weeks ago, it was after a thorough investigation, and he was processed through the criminal justice system as required by law, after which he was granted bail.
Dlamini was arrested on October 15 at his Wits residence. He is facing charges of public violence‚ theft‚ malicious damage to property and assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm. He is currently out on R2 000 bail. – SAnews.gov.za
