POLOKWANE – Makwala opened a case of assault and robbery at the Westenburg Police Station in September 2015 after he was stabbed and robbed at the Westenburg bridge on his way to work.
“I was attacked by about 10 men. They took my money, cellphone, bank card and prepaid electricity card. I rushed to the police station to open a case, and some of the suspects were arrested on the day, but were later released,” Makwala explained.
He said the suspects were meant to appear in court on 22 January, but he was surprised when his name was not on the court roll.
“The parents of some of the suspects paid me a visit to try to convince me to drop the charges,” he said.
“I did not agree to their request, and I went to the police station to report this unusual visit and to enquire about the state of my case. I was told that my case was withdrawn, but I was not given any reasons why.”
Makwala said he wanted the police to reopen his case so the suspects could pay for what they did.
“I don’t stay at my home anymore because I believe that the suspects might come after me and silence me for good. I have been told several times that no one is above the law, but clearly this only applies to a few,” said Makwala.
Westenburg police spokesperson, Capt Mohlaka Mashiane, confirmed that Makwala’s case was withdrawn, but did not have all the information as the investigating officer was on leave.
“The officer who was investigating the case had a family emergency and had to go on leave. I will get full details on the case when the officer reports back to work,” said Mashiane.
