The Independent Complaints Directorate (ICD) is probing the death of builder Pieter Wheeler in a police cell in Grabouw, Western Cape police said on Tuesday.
Wheeler (51) was found dead in the cell he shared with three other men at 11pm on Saturday, just over six hours after his detention for alleged drunkenness.
Although initial indications were that two of the other inmates assaulted him, the ICD — which investigates crimes involving the police — had been called to the scene and was investigating the murder, said Senior Superintendent Neville Malila.
The South African Police Service had also instituted an independent inquiry, he said.
”Seasoned investigators were appointed to conduct the inquiry. They are in the process of finalising their preliminary investigation.”
Their final report was expected on August 13, after which ”decisions” would be made, said Malila.
Meanwhile, Jerome Peters (25) and Rufus Jordaan (37), both of Grabouw, had been arrested, he said.
They appeared in the Grabouw Magistrate’s Court on a charge of murder on Tuesday. The case was postponed until August 13. Both remain in custody. — Sapa