Senior policemen arrested
2010-06-22 09:15
Nelspruit - A senior police official in Mpumalanga has been arrested for drunken driving, just one day after another was arrested for shoplifting.
Kevin James, acting head of legal services in the province, appeared in the Nelspruit District Court on Friday after he allegedly tried to steal a pack of meat from a supermarket.
On Saturday the provincial chief of crime intelligence, Dan Maropeng, was arrested on a charge of drunken driving near Kabokweni, a suburb near White River.
Vehicle swerving
According to a Beeld source, members of the flying squad who were on duty as part of the protection team for the 2010 FIFA World Cup saw a vehicle swerving across the road.
They stopped the vehicle and discovered Maropeng behind the wheel.
He was arrested and released shortly thereafter. He appeared in the Nelspruit court briefly on Monday.
Provincial police spokesperson Leonard Hlathi said on Monday said he knows nothing about Maropeng's arrest.
Meanwhile, no decision has been made yet about the possible suspension of James. He gives legal advice to the police's provincial management - including the suspension of police officials who are involved in criminal activities.
He is still at work.
Troubling
Anthony Benadie, DA leader in the province, said the two incidents are extremely troubling.
"I will be speaking to the provincial chief of police, Thulani Thobela, in person about the matter.
"Given the fact that the two officers are part of the police's senior management, harsh action should be taken without hesitation.
"Law enforcement officers can't break the law. They should be suspended immediately until their guilt or innocence is proven."
