4th February 2009 

Following clashes between IFP supporters and the police at the weekend, the IFP today warned against excessive violence being used by police and the need for constraint by the SAPS when dealing with members of the public.

"Let me state this unequivocally - the IFP is in no way suggesting that the police should not protect themselves, in fact they perform an extremely dangerous job so we urge them to be extra vigilant at all times. When dealing with the public however, we believe that force must be minimal and the barrel of a gun should be the last option," said Velaphi Ndlovu, the IFP's Safety and Security Spokesperson.

Mr Ndlovu added that members of the public are innocent until proven guilty and that in line with our Constitution, a person must to be given a chance in court to prove innocence or guilt. 

"I often ask myself the question: will a court be able to judge whether a person is guilty or not when that suspected criminal is no longer alive to give an account of their side of the story. Definitely, not! Therefore, we must make sure that all suspected wrongdoers are brought before our courts and that the police do not only protect themselves, but the lives of the citizens of this country as well," concluded Ndlovu.

Contact:
Velaphi Ndlovu, 083 625 0803.