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This morning I received an interim report from the Acting Head of Public Safety Department regarding an incident which took place on the evening of 17 August 2019 where motorist died after been arrested by the Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD).
The incident is currently also under investigation by the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) and the South African Police Services (SAPS) – I have been assured that the JMPD will give their full co-operation to these investigations.
The JMPD is also currently in the process of an internal investigation into the incident.
It is alleged that on the night in question, the motorist had disregarded a red light at William Nicol Drive and Sandton Drive. The motorist had then failed to stop when indicated to, rather opting to speed-off. This resulted in the JMPD giving chase.
The motorist is said to have then collided with a curb, resulting in the vehicle stopping in a nearby park. The man in question was allegedly under the influence of alcohol and was arrested by the JMPD.
Shortly following the arrest, the motorist allegedly informed officers that he was experiencing difficulties with breathing. The motorist was then taken out of the JMPD vehicle and medical assistance was called onto the scene.
Sadly, upon the examination by medical teams arriving on site, the man was declared dead.
Due to the on-going investigations, it would at this stage be premature to speculate on the precise cause of death. If any wrongdoing is determined by the on-going investigations, the City will be sure to take immediate action.
This said I would like to convey my sincerest condolences to the family and friends of the deceased and wish to extend our hand in assisting the family to overcome this difficult time.
The JMPD remains committed to serving our residents by ensuring their safety.
Cllr Michael Sun
MMC for Public Safety
City of Johannesburg
For media queries:
Luyanda Longwe
Stakeholder Manager: Office of the MMC for Public Safety
luyandalo@joburg.org.za
061 496 0536
