Five suspects aged between 39 and 51 were remanded in police custody by the Bafokeng Magistrates Court on Monday in the North West, and their matter was postponed to 20 November 2023.
According to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) Simelani Jali 51, Mzukisi Jali 24, Lindile Mkhatswa 45, Amos Ndodana 48 and Thobile Kati aged 39 were arrested after attacking two Phokeng police officers in Freedom Park on Thursday.
NPA spokesperson Henry Mamothame says the suspects are facing two counts of attempted murder, assault with intent to do grievous bodily harm, robbery with aggravating circumstances, kidnaping, and defeating the administration of justice after assaulting the two officers who were investigating a case of assault in the area.
“The first suspect in the assault matter that the pair was investigating was successfully arrested and placed behind the police van while the second suspect subsequently blew a whistle while resisting arrest and community members came and attacked the two police officers,” said Mamothame.
The officers who were allegedly kept against their will, were also robbed off their belongings before being rescued by the Public Order Police POP and the Tactical Response Team TRT
Mamothame added that the state intends to oppose the granting of bail to the accused when they return to court next week Monday.
The incident was condemned by Provincial Police Commissioner Lieutenant General Sello Kwena saying it was a tantamount to undermining the authority of the state and that it cannot be tolerated.
Kwena urged community members to work together with the police in the fight against crime.
During the launch of the 2023 Safer Festive Season Campaign, Minister Bheki Cele issued a stern warning to criminals that police officers were going to come down hard on them.
He urged the public not to underestimate the police officers and obstruct them when performing their duties.