Allegations of torture levelled against members of the South African Police Service (SAPS) by a cash-in-transit security guard are being investigated, police said on Thursday.
”Conduct of this nature — if [the] allegations are proved to be correct — is not only unacceptable, but also unconstitutional and criminal … Clearly, torture is out of question,” said Director Phuti Setati.
A Coin security guard was interviewed by the South African Broadcasting Corporation on Wednesday and claimed he had been tortured by police after they suspected him of being involved in a heist.
Police noted the allegations with ”grave concern” and said an intensive investigation has been launched into the incident based on the individual’s allegations.
”Members of the SAPS are, on an ongoing basis, receiving training in various fields of policing and detectives in particular are aware of the legal methods to be used in interrogation,” said Setati.
Emilie Fourie, general secretary of the Motor Transport Workers’ Union — which represents cash-in-transit guards — said guards are interrogated and wrongfully arrested in 90% of cash heists.
Setati urged any security guard who has a problem with police members to come forward so that the matter can be investigated. — Sapa