Cops in court for defeating ends of justice, kidnapping
TWO police officers are expected to appear in court today, for kidnapping and defeating the ends of justice, after a suspect had escaped from police guard in hospital.
Police said last month that a suspect was arrested in Maitland for housebreaking and theft, but was taken to hospital when the SAPS realised he needed medical attention.
Police spokesperson Captain FC van Wyk said: “The members took the suspect to Somerset Hospital, Sea Point for treatment. The 34-year-old constable was left at the hospital to guard the suspect. While at the hospital, the suspect managed to escape. The constable informed the 44-year-old warrant officer of the escape on his return to the hospital.
“The members drove around the area looking for the suspect, but could not trace him. They returned to the Maitland area and found another person on the street, who they took to Maitland Police Station and detained in place of the suspect.
“The officers had not informed anyone of what had transpired but, when the newly detained suspect was processed the next day after his arrest, the detective realised that the person did not fit the description of the suspect who was originally arrested.
“The matter was referred to the Anti-Corruption Unit for investigation. On completion of the investigation, it was discussed with the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) in the Western Cape, who decided to charge the members.
“The Magistrate at Cape Town Magistrate’s Court authorised warrants of arrest for the members and both were arrested on July 16, at Cape Town Central SAPS,” said Van Wyk.
Both officers are expected to appear in court today.
Meanwhile, in a separate incident in Samora Machel on Saturday, the SAPS Anti-Gang Unit were conducting stop-and-search operations when they tried to stop the driver of a Toyota Avanza, said police spokesperson Joseph Swartbooi.
“The vehicle came to a standstill at a distance and suddenly changed direction with police in pursuit. The vehicle was stopped near Helen Joseph Street, where a loaded 9mm pistol was confiscated.
“Moments later, in the early hours of yesterday morning, information was received relating to a firearm stored at residences in Manenberg.
“Upon arrival at the address in Seine Circle, police members found a 9mm Norinco pistol. The convoy proceeded to Ashley Forbes Road, in Tambo Village, where two 9mm pistols and ammunition were found,” said Swartbooi.
Another 9mm Browning pistol and ammunition was found in Thames Walk and confiscated.
“Six males between the ages of 24 and 46 were arrested, as they could not provide valid licences to be in possession of the mentioned firearms.
“Once charged, they are expected to make a court appearance in the Athlone Magistrate’s Court, on charges of possession of unlicensed and prohibited firearms and ammunition,” said Swartbooi.