Residents accuse police officers of brutality

eMZINONI- Angry residents of Ward 26 protested outside the eMzinoni Police Station against police brutality on Thursday, 12 May.

The disgruntled locals said they are tired of police corruption and brutality.

This came after Mr Sikhonzi Ndlovu, a resident, went to the police station to open a case of housebreaking.

He alleged that when he got to the police station, he did not receive good service and that an officer gave him paper and told him to write down a statement and the list of stolen items.

“I asked how they can expect me to write down a statement, but I did not get a clear answer.

“I returned home, because they were not helpful.”

People told him that someone was wearing one of his stolen items and referred him to the house robbery suspect.

The community apparently joined him and mobilised a search for the suspect.

They apparently apprehended and assaulted him.

Ms Precious Sikhosana, a resident, said they opted for street justice, because the police could not help.

Police officers arrived and wanted to know what was happening.

“They were arrogant and swore at us.

“After explained the situation to them, they arrested the suspect and Mr Ndlovu.

“We are upset, because we do not understand why a victim would be arrested.

“We went to the police station where all hell broke lose.”

Ms Sikhosana alleged that they were standing in the entrance of the station and demanded answers from the police.

She said officers became violent and physical.

“We ran for safety and Mr Nicholas Vilakazi who was assaulted by officers, fell.”

He was admitted to the Bethal Hospital following the alleged assault.

The Ridge Times visited Mr Vilakazi in the hospital.

The newspaper was denied access to the hospital and it took Mr Vilakazi a while to get to the entrance, because he could not walk properly.

He said he was traumatised and in shock about the police officers’ behaviour.

“I nearly died at the hands of police.

“I cried for help and asked what I had done, but they kept beating me.

“I nearly died, I nearly died,” Mr Vilakazi repeatedly told the newspaper.

Const Cynthia Mtshweni, police spokesman, said the police will investigate and said the victim will be assisted and a case will be opened.