Probe Northern Cape cell death - SAHRC
2012-10-23 19:43
Johannesburg - The alleged beating to death of a man in police custody in the Northern Cape must be investigated, the SA Human Rights Commission (SAHRC) said on Tuesday.
"The commission is currently in a process of further investigating this matter after a complaint was laid with our provincial office by the family of the deceased," the SAHRC said in a statement.
The man was allegedly assaulted on 6 October, while he was an awaiting trial prisoner being held at the Rosedale police station, in Upington.
Preliminary reports showed that he died of bleeding on the brain, a fractured skull and aspiration, the SAHRC said.
"The commission is also worried about reports of similar cases implicating the police from the same station in instances of brutality against suspects in lawful custody."
The commission said it had scheduled a meeting with the Independent Police Investigative Directorate and would ask what action would be taken to deal with the allegations of brutality.
"The death or assault of anybody in the custody of the police is a matter that deserves full investigation," it said.
- SAPA
