The Independent Police Investigative Directorate is investigating the death of 35-year-old Tshegofatso Selahle.
Selahle allegedly died at the hands of Johannesburg metro police officers on Saturday night.
According to a statement released by the JMPD, Selahle allegedly resisted arrest and was under the influence of alcohol.
“Then the motorist failed to stop when indicated to, rather opting to speed-off. This resulted in the JMPD opening a case. The motorist is said to have collided with a curb, resulting in the vehicle stopping in a nearby park. The motorist was allegedly under alcohol influence, and then got arrested by JMPD. Shortly after the arrest, the motorist informed officers that he was having trouble with breathing. The victim was then taken out of the JMPD vehicle and medical assistance was called on the scene.”
Department of Public Safety MMC Michael Sun, said he received an interim report from the Acting Head of Public Safety Department regarding the incident that took place on the evening of 17 August 2019.
“Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) and the South African Police Services (SAPS) are currently investigating the incident. JMPD will give their full-co-operation to these investigations. JMPD is also doing internal investigation into the incident”, he said.
Sun said according to allegations, the motorist had disregarded a red light at William Nico Drive and Sandton Drive.
Sun added that unfortunately after the examination by medical teams, when arriving on the scene the man was declared dead.
“It is still early to indicate the cause of the death and investigations are on-going. I would like to convey my sincerest condolences to the family and friends of the deceased and wish to extend our hand in assisting the family to overcome this difficult time. The JMPD remains committed to serving our residents by ensuring their safety”, said Sun.
