Mpumalanga Community Safety, Security and Liaison MEC, Ms. Sibongile Manana has called on the provincial Independent Complaints Directorate ICD, to fully investigate allegations of police brutality and general police conduct in the Dundonald area near Badplaas.
MEC Manana reacted after allegations of abuse and torture that included assaults and insults to public violence suspects arrested in Dundonald.
It is reported that the community was protesting against the release of three people who were taken in for questioning in relation to the disappearance of a child who was later found dead with missing body parts on 4 August 2009.
The 12 suspects were randomly arrested for public violence at different times and were taken in custody at Mayflower Police Station on 26 and 27 August 2009.
During the meeting on Friday, 11 September 2009 attended by the Head of Department, Mr. Isaiah Khoza, some of the victims complained that they were subjected to violence and inhumane treatment by the officers. They also alleged that some of the officers were drinking on duty and they also visited them at holding cells while under the influence of alcohol where they were subjected to verbal and physical abuse.
Some of the victims who claimed to have been assaulted by the police had visible scars.
MEC Manana has condemned the level of brutality meted against the suspects during their arrests prior to being charged.
Manana stated that irrespective of the nature of allegations against any suspect, under no uncertain terms are police expected to take the law into their own hands.
"The police, as the custodians of the law of the country, did not have any right whatsoever to assault, abuse and insult them".
"Police have a constitutional obligation to maintain public order, to protect and secure South Africa's inhabitants and their property, and to uphold and enforce the law."
"The isolated acts of brutalities especially when committed against our youth have a potential to destroy them forever. There is possibility that some of them even in the future could be afraid to seek police assistance even when they need the most, "said Manana.
Manana said the ICD needs to finalise investigations as soon as possible so that appropriate steps could be taken against any wrong doing.
Manana further indicated that the department would constantly monitor progress with regard to this matter.
She has also called on the community to come forward and assist with information so that the matter could be speedily resolved.