Alleged drunk cop in video detained

The South African Police Service (Saps) has condemned the conduct of a constable stationed at Wolmaransstad in the Dr Kenneth Kaunda District.

Video footage showing the constable in uniform struggling to stand on Saturday because he was allegedly drunk.

In the video, community members show him where the state vehicle is damaged, but he struggles to inspect it himself as he struggles to stand and ends up on the ground. A community member then helps him to his feet.

According to police spokesman Brigadier Sabata Mokgwabone, the damage was apparently caused by collision of the state vehicle with a fence and the constable was allegedly the driver at the time of the incident.

The provincial commissioner of North West, Lieutenant-General Sello Kwena, condemned the incident and said all Saps members were obliged at all times to conduct themselves in a professional manner and adhere to the code of conduct, including using available resources responsibly and to take into account the needs of the community.

A case of driving under the influence of alcohol and reckless or negligent driving was opened for investigation while the constable was detained.

“Preliminary investigation revealed that the constable is not authorised to drive state motor vehicle. As a result, he will also face an additional charge of use of motor vehicle without owner’s consent. Departmental investigation will also be instituted against the member in terms of Saps Discipline Regulations,” said Mokgwabone.

Another police officer was released on R500 bail on Sunday and was expected to appear in the Wolmaransstad Magistrate’s Court soon.

He is facing charges of driving under the influence of alcohol, reckless and negligent driving and use of motor vehicle without owner’s consent.