The joint Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) and South African Police Service (SAPS) investigation into the 22 October 2012 attempted escape from lawful custody has resulted in the arrest of a 29 year o

The joint Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) and South African Police Service (SAPS) investigation into the 22 October 2012 attempted escape from lawful custody has resulted in the arrest of a 29 year old Constable based at Randburg Magistrates Court as a Court Orderly.

A witness identified the suspect policeman in court today and he was arrested on the spot.

The arrest follows an incident in which thirty six (36) awaiting trial detainees were being transported from Randburg Court to Johannesburg Correctional Services for further detention. On the way to the Correctional Centre, between the Golden Highway and the N12 Meredale/Naturena, there was an explosion at the back of the police truck that was transporting the detainees. Three (3) detainees died as a result of the explosion.

The policeman arrested by the IPID has been implicated in the smuggling of the explosive device used in the attempted escape. He will appear at the Johannesburg Magistrates Court on 07 November 2012. He will face three (3) charges of murder, twenty nine (29) charges of attempted murder, one charge each of unlawful possession of explosives and aiding and abetting escape from lawful custody.

The investigation continues. Other arrests are possible.

Issued by the Independent Police Investigative Directorate.

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