The actions of the South African Police Service have once again come under the magnifying glass after a man from Somerset West was shot and killed by an officer attached to Somerset West Crime Prevention Unit.
According to a spokesperson for the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) Grace Langa, the incident occurred on Tuesday, November 23 when officers were executing a search warrant at Chris Nissen Park, Somerset West.
Langa said it is alleged that the Constable whose identity is not yet known was attacked by the homeowner with a spade before firing two live rounds at the man, which hit him on his right shoulder.
“The deceased died on the crime scene. Investigations are continuing and all evidence was collected,” Langa expressed.
She went on to say that IPID will investigate the death as a result of police action after the family of the deceased was updated.
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IPID is also investigating a case where a Pretoria man was shot in the head following a verbal altercation with police officers at a lodge in Muldersdrift. The man, identified as Len Cloete, is currently in a coma following the incident.
In a Facebook post, Cloete’s wife, Chantel shared that “My husband fighting for his life. My heart is [sic] completely broken. Taking day by day. We miss you! Your kids are waiting for you. Fight my man I cannot lose you, not like this. Please pray for a miracle everyone.”
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