The City of Cape Town’s Safety and Security Mayco Member JP Smith expressed disappointment and anger on social media after two Metro Police officers were allegedly involved in a business robbery.
One of the two officers has been arrested and is expected to appear in the Athlone Magistrates’ Court soon.
It is believed that the duo formed part of a group of officers from various external agencies involved in the crime.
According to police spokesperson Warrant Officer Joseph Swartbooi, the robbery occurred in Athlone Industria on Friday when four men and a woman, some of whom were armed, entered the premises.
“They threatened the staff and fled the scene with the security guard and an undisclosed amount of cash and valuables. The suspects dropped the victim off near Johnson Road,” said Swartbooi.
“The circumstances surrounding the incident are under investigation.”
In a Facebook post, JP Smith said: “As soon as the City became aware of the allegations, contact was made with the SAPS detective, and our own SSIU (Safety and Security Investigation Unit) traced and arrested one of the officers and handed him over to SAPS for further investigation. The City has also been actively involved in and supporting the investigation, which is ongoing.”
He called on the police to “fast-track the investigation” to ensure the facts are established urgently.
“While no institution is immune from its staff becoming involved in criminal activities, the manner in which such actions are dealt with by the agency, will determine the reputation and ethical culture of the institution,” he said.
“If the allegations are true, it would bring shame to the department, and I am grateful for the swift and effective disciplinary action already undertaken by the management of the directorate.”
Smith said a pre-suspension letter was served to the arrested MPD officer.
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Picture: JP Smith / Facebook
