IPID IS INVESTIGATING THE DEATH OF A TAXI DRIVER AT THE HANDS OF THE POLICE – DAVEYTON, GAUTENG

Media Statement
PRETORIA – 27 February 2013

The Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) is investigating the death as a result of police action of a Mozambican national. The deceased was a 27 year old taxi driver from Daveyton.

It is alleged that on 26 February 2013 at about 18:50 two policemen, a Warrant Officer and a Constable were driving along Empilweni Street in Daveyton, when they noticed an obstruction of traffic. A Toyota Avanza (taxi) was allegedly obstructing traffic and the policemen switched on the siren of the police vehicle and tried to speak to the taxi driver to move his vehicle. It is also alleged that the taxi driver then assaulted the Constable and took his police firearm. The Warrant Officer overpowered the taxi driver and handed the firearm back to his colleague. It is alleged that the Warrant officer drove to Daveyton SAPS in the taxi to call for back-up. When back-up arrived the Constable was still at the scene struggling to put the suspect in the police van. The policemen then put the resisting suspect into the back of the police van and they took him to the police station where he was detained.

The taxi driver was found dead at about 21:15 by another police officer. An Inquest docket was later registered. An assault GBH docket against the deceased was also opened by the police.

The IPID was notified and it started an investigation. The post mortem was attended on 27 February 2013 and the cause of death was found to be head injuries with internal bleeding. The deceased also had other injuries.

The IPID is also investigating allegations that the deceased was dragged on the road with the police vehicle. The docket has since been changed to murder.

No arrests have been made. The investigation continues.

Issued by the Independent Police Investigative Directorate

For enquiries:
IPID National Spokesman
Moses Dlamini
082 809 1927
mdlamini@ipid.gov.za