SAPS vs metro cops: JMPD officer's killing again raises questions on strained relations
Strained relations between metro police law enforcement and SAPS are nothing new and have been ongoing for years. Senior sources within metro police in KZN, GP and WC claim there is animosity between their members and the SAPS.
JOHANNESBURG - The recent killing of Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD) officers by members of the South African Police Service (SAPS) has - once again - raised questions over the relationship between the units.
Strained relations between metro police law enforcement and SAPS are nothing new and have been ongoing for years.
There are currently seven metro police departments in South Africa.
Senior sources within metro police in KwaZulu-Natal, Gauteng and the Western Cape claim animosity between their members and SAPS.
Metro cops believe they hold more trust among the general public as SAPS has become synonymous with corruption.
Over the years there have been several standoffs between metro and SAPS members, some resulting in injuries and even death.
SAPS sources on the other hand feel metro police should know their place as a supportive structure and not the first line of defence in the country.
Last month, JMPD officer Nombulelo Mthimkhulu, was shot dead by police officers following a heated standoff outside her home in Dobsonville, Soweto.
This follows police trying to arrest Mthimkhulu’s son, accusing him of reckless and negligent driving.
The Independent Investigative Police Directorate is probing a case of death owing to SAPS officers’ actions.