Two police officers appeared in the Simons Town magistrates’ court on Wednesday on charges related to lending a taxi boss a police car.
Investigation into illicit acts
The policemen, aged 25 and 31, who are based at Nyanga police station, were arrested on Tuesday for allegedly borrowing a taxi boss the police vehicle for his own private use.
Western Cape police spokesperson Brigadier Novela Potelwa said the duo was arrested as part of an investigation into illicit activities involving a taxi boss.
“Scenes from that irregular occurrence were captured in a video posted on social media platforms earlier in the year. The incident is alleged to have occurred in the Ocean View area,” said Potelwa.
Arrests, charge
“An investigation ensued, which led to the arrests and the two were charged in terms of sections 56 and 59 of the Police Act,” she said.
According to Section 59 of the South African Police Services Act, no member shall – without the permission of the person under whose command he or she serves – lend any means of transport or equipment which he or she is required to keep and possess.
“An internal disciplinary investigation is also underway pertaining to the conduct of the two police officials,” said Potelwa.
Lengthy process
Asked why it took the police months to act on a matter that happened earlier in the year, Potelwa said: “In as far as the investigation is concerned, when SAPS investigators institute an investigation, they ensure they do a proper job not only relying on the video but taking necessary statements and other evidential material.
“The suggestion that the police take long against their own is not only unfounded but without basis. This case would not have reached this level if that were the case.”
Polelwa said Western Cape police commissioner Lieutenant-General Thembisile Patekile has vowed to clean the service in the province of police officials who transgress the law and departmental prescripts.
