Metro police assault on worshippers under investigation

eTHEKWINI Municipality is to launch an internal investigation in the allegations that some members of Metro Police allegedly assaulted and intimidated Masjid attendees on Friday, 17 January at the May Street Mosque in Greyville.

This was announced by city manager, Sibusiso Sithole at the first meeting of EXCO on Tuesday. Sithole said the city viewed the allegations seriously and he had requested the Metro Police Unit submit a report so that appropriate action could be taken.

City Mayor, James Nxumalo also apologised publically to the Muslim community after Friday’s incident.

Nxumalo said Metro Police officers should have waited for the prayer to finish before storming the mosque with their shoes on in pursuit of an alleged parking violator. The Mayor met with representatives of the Muslim community at the Mosque in Greyville and urged them to let due process take its course. He said they had a right to feel angry and open a criminal case if they wanted.

According to media reports, the incident took place around 1pm on Friday when metro police officers attempted to arrest a man for double parking and obstructing the flow of traffic. The driver allegedly ran into the mosque with police in pursuit. Police were initially denied access into the mosque because they were wearing shoes, but after back-up arrived, they reportedly marched into the mosque to find the driver.

Media reports allege that a argument broke out outside the mosque when several people recorded the incident on their cellphones. Four people were arrested and taken to the Durban Central holding cells.

Grey Street Mosque chairman AV Mohammed has announced that a team is to be appointed to investigate the incident. He warned worshippers however to park properly or face being fined.

Nxumalo said he would see if additional space could be made available for additional parking.