Home News SANDU calls for an inquiry into allegations of brutality by members of the SANDF

SANDU calls for an inquiry into allegations of brutality by members of the SANDF

by Salaamedia

By Zahid Jadwat

As South Africa enters the extended period of the nationwide lockdown, members of SAPS and SANDF have been criticised over the alleged mistreatment of civilians in certain areas in their attempt to enforce the lockdown.

SANDF has been deployed to assist the police with the implementation of the lockdown since it came into effect on March 26, 2020, in an effort to curb the spread of the coronavirus Covid-19 pandemic.

Nine civilians have allegedly died at the hands of members of SANDF and SAPS over the lockdown period.

The latest death is said to be that of the 40-year-old Collins Khoza who was allegedly beaten to death by three soldiers after he was caught drinking in his yard in Alexandra township on Friday, 10 April.

Defense Minister, Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula, is quoted by The South African as saying that the army is regretful over the alleged brutality. “We hang our heads in shame. We will not defend what happened, but give us time to investigate what happened.”

She added: “We are saddened and we regret what happened. We do not know what the circumstance which led to such were.”

The inquest into Khosa’s death is being handled by SAPS, the military police service, and the ombudsman.

The South African National Defence Union (SANDU) has called for an inquiry into these allegations.

SANDU national secretary, Pikkie Greeff, spoke to Salaamedia’s Azhar Vadi on The Alternative View this morning.

Listen to the full discussion here:

Featured image via Moneyweb.

 

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