Durban - She says she has endured weeks of harassment, stalking and late night calls from a KwaZulu-Natal Road Traffic Inspectorate officer who made brazen sexual advances.
Now a case has been opened against the rogue cop, but the victim from Scottburgh fears for her life as authorities have not acted on the matter.
Ntombikayise Ndlovu’s nightmare began on March 5 when she was pulled over on the N2 for speeding.
Since then, the cop has been calling her constantly.
Ndlovu told the Sunday Tribune on Saturday that whenever she sees an RTI vehicle driving past her flat she is terrified.
This follows her being pulled over and issued a R600 fine for not wearing a seatbelt. Another charge was added after it was discovered her vehicle’s tail lights were not working.
Ndlovu said the officer asked where she lived, with whom and if he could visit her.
“I thought it was just small talk but got worried when he asked if I had a boyfriend and kids. It got even worse – he asked if I was on a contraceptive pill.
“I thought of punching him. I clenched my fist but managed to contain my anger because he was in full uniform and carried a gun. He kept glancing at his female partner, who was stopping other cars.
“He was taking down my details, including my address and contact number, when he promised to pay for the fine on condition that I allow him to visit my flat. But I told him I had no problem paying the fine and soon left,” she said.
Ndlovu said for the next three days the officer bombarded her with late night calls.
She even thought of changing her cellphone number. She said she had suffered asthma attacks over the problem.
“On Friday I nearly bumped into him at the KFC. Fortunately, he never saw me and I walked out. I do not know what he is capable of.
“How do I trust RTI officials after this drama? What am I supposed to do when there is a roadblock – stop or speed away?”
Ndlovu was also angry that the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Transport had not taken action against the officer two weeks after she met Park Rynie’s chief provincial inspector, Aboo Essop Aboo-baker, and laid charges at the Scottburgh police station.
She was surprised to find the case referred to as one of “harassment” instead of “sexual harassment”.
When she consulted an RTI officer, she said she was told the cop in question was known for his sexual tendencies but his victims were usually too scared to take any matter forward.
She said his arrest would put her mind at rest and help protect other women.
“I am not happy that the department has not informed me of this case. Even the SAPS has not acted against the man. I want him arrested and fired because he is a threat to women motorists. I live in a small town. I cannot avoid him forever,” said Ndlovu.
Park Rynie’s Aboobaker confirmed he had forwarded his recommendation to the department and said he did not understand why it had not been acted upon.
“My recommendation was that he should be suspended. I regard this as a serious issue which needs attention. He is a senior member with more than 11 years’ experience,” said Aboobaker.
He said the man had been suspended before, but did not provide further details.
However, RTI spokeswoman Zinhle Mngomezulu said the matter was under investigation and she had spoken to the victim. “If he is found guilty, the department will ensure that he is reprimanded accordingly,” said Mngomezulu.
SAPS spokesman Colonel Jay Naicker confirmed that a harassment docket had been opened at Scottburgh police station.
Sunday Tribune