JMPD arrests: SAPS dismisses claims of unlawful detention

Gauteng Police have dismissed claims that five Joburg Metro Police Department (JMPD) officers were unlawfully arrested by the South African Police Service (SAPS) in Bekkersdal.

Earlier on Monday, the City’s MMC for Public Safety accused police of fabricating charges against the JMPD’s Tactical Response Unit and called on the provincial commissioner to intervene.

However, Gauteng’s Top Cop, Tommy Mthombeni, said the arrests were lawful, following community reports about a raid being conducted by the unit.

Four JMPD officers and two undocumented foreign nationals were detained and have since appeared in the Westonaria Magistrates Court.

SAPS provincial spokesperson Brenda Muridilli explained: “The provincial commissioner, upon engaging with the district commissioner, is satisfied that the members have acted within the bounds of the law.”