The portfolio committee on police has lauded the dismissal of a senior instructor accused of raping a younger female trainee at the SAPS training academy in Philippi.
The 50-year-old cop, who is out on warning, was arrested by the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (Ipid) on April 21 on a charge of rape and has appeared in the Wynberg Magistrate’s Court.
Ipid spokesperson Phaladi Shuping said the incident allegedly occurred on March 31 when the instructor called the 30-year-old trainee to his office.
“It is alleged that the instructor locked the door once the complainant was inside, and raped her. She was allowed to leave after the alleged rape, but she did not report the incident immediately,” said Shuping, adding that the incident was reported days later.
New portfolio committee chairperson Ian Cameron had been vocal about the incident before his election to Parliament and called for an investigation into alleged mistreatment of female trainees after reporting sexual harassment and rape at the academy.
He recently wrote to Police Minister Senzo Mchunu, enquiring about the case.
National police spokesperson Athlenda Mathe said: “The SAPS can confirm that the internal departmental process has been finalised and the captain attached to the Philippi training academy has been dismissed. The member was arrested by Ipid on a rape charge and he is out on bail.
“A training academy ought to be a safe haven for trainees and not a crime scene. The SAPS has no room for GBVF perpetrators in its organisation. Where it manifests it will be dealt with accordingly. The safety and well-being of our trainees is of paramount importance and that’s why we have moved with speed to ensure we remove the perpetrator. The SAPS is providing the necessary support to the trainee through the employee health and wellness unit, which includes psychologists and chaplains.”
Cameron hailed the dismissal as a “good start” to rid police of members who exposed themselves to misconduct and crime.
“The dismissal of the disgraced instructor is a strong indication of the drive to root out criminals within the SAPS. It is also a strong message that gender-based violence will not be tolerated within the SAPS and in the country in general,” Cameron said.
He also highlighted the need for Ipid to conclude the investigation to ensure effective prosecution of the matter.
“While the officer has been arrested and is now out on bail, the completion of the investigation is critical to ensure effective prosecution,” he said.
On allegations of criminality and mismanagement at the Philippi academy, Cameron said Mchunu had given the assurance that the allegations were being investigated and feedback would be provided in due course.
“It is unacceptable that those in positions of authority can abuse financial resources and trainees and every effort must be made to hold those in power accountable,” he added.
Cape Times