Johannesburg - A group of police officers belonging to the Tembisa Tactical Response Team (TRT) who were arrested for murder and torture have been intimidating the investigating officer in their case, Independent Police Investigative Directorate (Ipid) spokeswoman Grace Langa told The Star on Wednesday.
“It is true. She reported that she had received intimidation from some of the TRT police officers currently out on bail.
“They have been around her neighbourhood and were also walking around her house… They are intimidating her, but the problem is they’re not doing anything police can use,” Langa said about the police officer, who asked to remain anonymous because she fears for her life.
Langa also told The Star that a restraining order had been issued and extra protection placed at the investigating officer’s home as per her request after the intimidation began.
The officers were released on R2 000 bail each with no objection from Ipid or the State during their bail hearing in September.
“They were released on bail with certain conditions; if these conditions are not adhered to, there will be consequences,” Langa said.
She warned that if the intimidation did not stop, the men would be rearrested.
“We will look at talking and engaging with their lawyers… we need to be proactive.”
The men have been charged with the murder and torture of 37-year-old Khuthazile Mbedu in Ivory Park, Midrand, last year.
On the evening of December 8, the 10 TRT police officers arrested Mbedu for theft of a vehicle in Ivory Park.
While transporting him to the police station, the TRT officers (also known as the amaberethe) allegedly tortured him, which eventually led to his death.
“It is believed that they broke his leg, choked him and continuously beat him. He sustained fatal injuries and later died in hospital,” Langa said following their arrest on September 1.
The TRT officers are expected to make their next court appearance soon.
The Star