Another police officer has been arrested in connection with an alleged incident of sexual assault involving a female detainee. The event is said to have occurred at the Blue Downs Magistrate’s Court, where the victim, a 40-year-old woman awaiting trial at Pollsmoor Prison, was allegedly assaulted by a police officer while in custody.
According to details shared in a leaked police document, the victim had been transported from the prison to court on January 14 for an appearance. After the court session, two police officers escorted her to a holding cell. However, before reaching the cell, she was allegedly harmed by an officer who was not one of the two accompanying her. Afterward, the victim reported the incident to the warden at Pollsmoor Prison, which led to an investigation by the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID).
IPID spokesperson Phaladi Shuping confirmed that the incident occurred around 1:30 pm on Tuesday. Following the victim’s report, a docket was opened, and after being processed, it was handed over to IPID for further investigation. Police spokesperson Warrant Officer Joseph Swartbooi assured that IPID is thoroughly investigating the circumstances surrounding the case.
The case has raised significant concern among advocates for gender-based violence victims. Ilitha Labantu, an organization focused on addressing gender-based violence, expressed strong dismay over the situation. Spokesperson Siyabulela Monakali emphasized how deeply unsettling it is when someone in a position of authority, whose responsibility is to protect the public, is accused of such actions. “The survivor went through this ordeal in what should have been a secure environment,” Monakali said. “This case underscores the need for accountability and for a justice system that truly safeguards vulnerable individuals.”
Monakali and others have also raised concerns about the handling of the case, particularly regarding the investigation process. They noted the importance of ensuring immediate action, including forensic evidence collection and a thorough review of the facts. They are calling for an investigation that is impartial and swift to ensure that justice is served.
This incident comes shortly after another case involving a police officer in Malmesbury, who was suspended after being accused of assaulting a woman in police custody. These events continue to shed light on the challenges within the criminal justice system and the need for stronger protections for individuals in detention.
As the investigation into this latest case continues, the focus remains on ensuring that victims of such incidents receive the support they need and that their rights are fully upheld. Advocates stress the importance of a justice system that is both responsive and respectful of survivors’ dignity and well-being.
