Inkatha Freedom Party Statement By:
MR VELAPHI NDLOVU MP 
IFP SAFETY AND SECURITY SPOKESPERSON

12 September 2007

It is with shock and outrage that the Inkatha Freedom Party has learned of the arrest of an Ekurhuleni metro policeman for the possession of illegal ammunition in Benoni on Monday evening. 

It has become clear that corruption has become part and parcel of South Africa's police forces. 

The officer - who was caught with over 100 live rounds of AK47 ammunition, 103 rounds of 9mm live ammunition, and an AK47 empty magazine - should face the full brunt of the law and a long jail term if he is found guilty.  

Any police force has the responsibility to prevent, combat and investigate crime; maintain public order; protect and secure the inhabitants of the Republic and their property; uphold and enforce the law and create a safe and secure environment for all people in South Africa. 

Criminal acts by police officers are totally unacceptable and should be strongly condemned. But then again, let us not forget that this metro police officer's boss is the suspended Ekurhuleni's metro police chief, Robert McBride, who himself has allegations of drunk-driving and corruption against him. 

If the police don't respect the rule of law, then how can we ever hope to bring down the high levels of crime in this country? And how can we appeal to the public to respect the rule of law when those who are tasked to set the example are criminals themselves? 

FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Mr Velaphi Ndlovu MP: 083 625 0803
Liezl van der Merwe: 083 611 7470