Johannesburg - A Mpumalanga police constable is in a pickle after laying into his boss “by accident”, Beeld newspaper reported on Tuesday.
Lt-Gen Mark Magadlela, newly appointed police commissioner in the province, was on surprise visits to police stations as part of his project to tackle corruption and discipline in the police.
Driving with his colleague Colonel C Mhlonthlo of legal services, both were in civilian dress to be anonymous during their visits.
On their way to the Belfast office, they spotted a constable who had stopped in the town and saw a young child with him.
It is against police regulations to transport civilians in an official vehicle without permission.
Magadlela approached the bakkie and removed the keys but according to sources the constable snatched the keys back, and there were fisticuffs.
Magadlela is believed to have injured his finger.
The constable drove to the police station to report the incident, only to find out that it was the commissioner.
Police spokesman Colonel Leonard Hlathi would only confirm the incident.
The constable would face an internal investigation.
Sapa