Police under investigation for fatal assault in Piet Retief

A 60-year-old man died in the hospital after he was allegedly assaulted by members of the police who had attended to a domestic violence complaint on September 8.

According to Colonel Donald Mdhluli, a provincial police spokesperson, the circumstances surrounding this incident are still under investigation.

The man died in hospital on September 9 after being admitted with several injuries.

“The Mpumalanga SAPS is aware of the serious allegations concerning the man who died under questionable circumstances as well as the allegations against two police officers who attended the domestic violence complaint in Piet Retief,” said Mdhluli.

The acting provincial police commissioner, Major General Dr Zeph Mkhwanazi, strongly condemned this incident and expressed his concern over the actions that compromise the SAPS’s integrity.

“Nothing is going to be swept under the table and we can never allow any manner of misconduct by members of the service.

“The incident is regrettable, and if these members are found to have taken the law into their own hands, they will have to
be charged accordingly and face the full might of the law,” he said.

In light of these allegations, an immediate internal investigation has been initiated.

“We are committed to upholding the highest standards of conduct in our ranks, and any officer found to be in violation of these standards will face appropriate disciplinary action,” said Mdhluli.

The Independent Police Investigative Directorate (Ipid) is conducting its own investigations.

“The Mpumalanga SAPS will fully co-operate with the Ipid inquiry, as we believe in transparency and accountability.

“We urge the community to remain patient as both investigations unfold.

“The integrity and trust of the SAPS are paramount, and we are dedicated to ensuring that justice is served.”