The recent death of a woman allegedly at the hands of the police has drawn comment from local leadership.
Expressing concern on the death which led to led to a march by residents, youths and women’s organisations to the Alexandra Police Station, councillor Monde Mbingeleli of Ward 116 said the incident was a dark reminder of the past which should not be repeated.
“The community’s response through the march can be justified as the incident allegedly resulted from the actions of people who they expect should protect and promote their safety and human rights,” he stressed.
The case is now under investigation by the Independent Police Investigation Directorate. Mbingeleli added that despite the investigation, it would help police to restore relations with the community if its leadership sent condolences to the family. “This won’t be an admission of guilt but a humane and compassionate act expected in a civilised society like ours which is premised on human rights.
“As it is, the community will not trust the police and it will take long for them to change as long as they perceive police as showing no concern or distancing themselves from what happened,” he concluded.
