Three Cape Town law enforcement officers have been
suspended for allegedly verbally abusing and harassing people on the Cape Flats
during the Covid-19 lockdown.
The suspensions were revealed on Thursday by Western Cape
community safety MEC Albert Fritz, who said he condemned any abuse of power by
police or soldiers.
“Fundamental constitutional rights, such as the right to
dignity, can under no circumstances be suspended by the national state of
disaster,” he said.
“I cannot be silent amid the numerous complaints of
physical abuse and humiliation against our residents. I will exercise my
constitutional powers of oversight over the SA Police Service, metro police and
law enforcement.”
Fritz said there had been 50 lockdown-related arrests
between 6pm on Wednesday and 6am on Thursday. A further 321 non-compliance
fines were issued.
“I have requested that the Western Cape Liquor Authority
ensure that any outlet which contravenes the lockdown conditions be liable for
a maximum fine of R100,000 and have their licence revoked immediately, subject
to investigation,” he said.
The liquor authority would also join the provincial joint
operational and intelligence structure [Provjoints] leading the response to the
Covid-19 crisis, and be included in every investigation of liquor being sold.
“I further welcome the resolution taken by Provjoints that
no alcohol will be returned to any outlet after paying admission of guilt,” he
said. Sowetan
I urge the security forces not to use violence against citizens looking for food!— Hopewell Chin’ono-Journalist (@daddyhope) April 3, 2020
We are on a #Lockdown but the reality is that the majority of our people live from hand to mouth.
This happened in another country.
Violence has unintended consequences when citizens are fed up! pic.twitter.com/7Csvcd0NWe
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