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AfriForum’s Private Prosecution Unit now represents four more victims in cases against Tshwane Metro Police Department (TMPD) officers accused of crimes including robbery, kidnapping, and assault. Johnson Lebombo and Aubrey Phalane appeared in the Pretoria Magistrates Court today. This pair, together with Makgoba Ramokshakga are the accused in a separate matter where the unit acts in terms of a watching brief. 

These new cases date as far back as 2017 and are registered at police stations in Erasmia and Olievenhoutbosch, except for one registered at the Garsfontein Police Station. The trio are reportedly the subjects of several internal disciplinary matters related to similar allegations. They have been suspended from duty. 

The unit has previously been accompanied by councillor Grandi Theunissen, Tshwane Community Safety MMC, in a show of solidarity against rogue elements in the TMPD. “The Private Prosecution Unit stands firm in the fight against corruption and the abuse of power by law enforcement officers,” says Barry Bateman, spokesperson for the unit. 

“Members of the public must do the right thing by coming forward to ensure that those who abuse their positions of authority in order to enrich themselves are brought to book. The unit will continue to support the victims of such crimes.” 

The matter has been postponed until 7 March 2024 for the defence to present representation to the National Director of Public Prosecutions.

Issued by AfriForum