×

We've got news for you.

Register on SowetanLIVE at no cost to receive newsletters, read exclusive articles & more.
Register now

Not all police officers are brutes and bad, says Zuma

THREE WISE MEN : Justice Minister Jeff Radebe, Jacob Zuma and Deputy Minister Marius Fransman in Paarl yesterday.
THREE WISE MEN : Justice Minister Jeff Radebe, Jacob Zuma and Deputy Minister Marius Fransman in Paarl yesterday.

IN THE wake of ongoing reports of police brutality, President Jacob Zuma has urged South Africans to support law enforcement officers.

Commemorating Human Rights Day yesterday in Paarl, Western Cape, Zuma said the government had directed that the SAPS code of conduct be promoted.

"There have been some regrettable, shocking and unacceptable incidents involving the SAPS since the last Human Rights Day commemoration," Zuma said.

The incidents included both the Marikana tragedy, in which 43 striking miners and police officers were killed, as well as the death of Mozambican taxi driver Mido Macia, who died in police custody after being dragged behind a police van.

Since Macia's death a number of other similar cases of police brutality have surfaced.

But Zuma said people could not condemn the entire police service, comprising 200000 men and women for being brutal.

"The overwhelming majority ... fight crime within the confines and discipline of the Constitution, and we applaud them for that.

"We must support them as well in their efforts to root out rotten apples from their ranks who engage in criminal action including corruption."

In Parliament on Wednesday, Zuma reportedly told MPs a commission of inquiry into police brutality was not necessary.

"Actions have been taken (against those who violate the law). They're in prison. They're being charged," Zuma said.

" I don't think the situation, as I see it, warrants a commission of inquiry."

Would you like to comment on this article?
Register (it's quick and free) or sign in now.

Speech Bubbles

Please read our Comment Policy before commenting.