The IFP today expressed shock at the police brutality meted out to Khayelihle Zuma (21) while held as a suspect in the recent murder of Cllr Chetty.

The IFP National Spokesperson, Rev Musa Zondi, said:

"It is quite shocking that in this day and age of constitutional democracy which protects human rights, the police should be allowed to get away with such despicable violence and brutality as was meted out to Khayelihle Zuma, merely for being a suspect in this case. Surely, this is a flagrant violation and disregard of the law and the Constitution."

Mr Zuma was arrested at his home in Escourt at dawn on Monday morning as a suspect in the murder of Cllr Chetty. He was then beaten up and tortured severely in an effort to force him to agree to involvement in the murder.

He only appeared in court yesterday long after the expiry of the stipulated 48 hours but his case was not concluded yesterday and was remanded in custody. He appeared again today before the Magistrate at Escourt and was cleared of all charges.

On his release the police who arrested him on Monday and who had been torturing him refused his relatives permission for access to Mr Zuma. They then drove off with him in a police van and he escaped while the vehicle was in motion. He sustained injuries to his head, body and legs. The police then decided to take him to Edendale Hospital much against Zuma's will and that of his relatives. He fears for his life.

For further information contact:
Rev Musa Zondi, IFP National Spokesperson
083 4405966

Mr Maliyakhe Shelembe