Tebogo Msimanga |
“The safety and security of Gauteng residents are worryingly compromised as police officers tasked with a responsibility to prevent anything that may threaten the safety or security of any resident and to ensure criminals are brought to justice, are also currently being investigated for committing serious criminal offences.” These are the sentiments of Democratic Alliance (DA) Gauteng Shadow MEC for Community Safety Michael Shackleton.
He said according to Gauteng MEC for Community Safety, Faith Mazibuko in a written reply to his questions tabled in the Gauteng Provincial Legislature, 459 police officers in Gauteng currently have criminal cases open against them.
“These criminal cases range from reckless and negligent driving, common assault, assault with intentions to cause grievous bodily harm, attempted murder, theft, house and business robbery, fraud, corruption, bribery, and domestic violence.”
Shackleton added that it is a clear indication that South African Police Servies (SAPS) is failing in its responsibility to prevent and investigate crime as well as ensure that police officer uphold the rule of law instead of breaking it.
“There should be an urgent intervention strategy in those top police stations severely affected to ensure that officers abide by the SAPS code of conduct and maintain a high standard of discipline and professionalism.”
