Muizenberg SAPS Death in Custody Investigation Sparks Outrage

• Cebisa Silwana, 46, died at Muizenberg SAPS on August 8 after being allegedly pinned against a wardrobe by a police officer.
• The Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) is not investigating the matter, citing its legislative mandate.
• An inquest docket has been opened to investigate the circumstances surrounding Cebisa's death.
• Three officers, including Muizenberg SAPS station commander Lieutenant-Colonel Delmore Manuel, are facing criminal charges related to a separate incident.
• The Vrygrond Community Development Trust is demanding an independent investigation into Cebisa Silwana's death.

Despite pleas from her loved ones not to arrest her due to her recent surgery, the officer decided to handcuff Cebisa.

The death of Cebisa Silwana, 46, at Muizenberg police station on August 8 has sparked outrage and demands for an independent investigation. The incident occurred just hours after she was allegedly pinned against a wardrobe by a police officer who had been called to the scene. According to eyewitnesses, including family members and neighbors, Cebisa's condition was deteriorating rapidly as she was being taken to the station. Despite pleas from her loved ones not to arrest her due to her recent surgery, the officer decided to handcuff her. The family accompanied Cebisa to the police station, where she became dizzy and later vomited. Emergency services were called, but unfortunately, they were unable to save her. The cause of death has yet to be established, with an inquest docket having been opened to investigate the circumstances surrounding her passing.

The Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID), South Africa's police watchdog, has stated that it is not investigating Cebisa Silwana's death. According to Phaladi Shuping, IPID spokesperson, the matter does not fall within their legislative mandate. However, if police actions are found to be liable for her death, IPID may be required to investigate. This highlights the complexities of the current system and the need for clear guidelines on when IPID should intervene in such cases. Meanwhile, three officers, including Muizenberg SAPS station commander Lieutenant-Colonel Delmore Manuel, are facing criminal charges related to a separate incident involving the assault and torture of a barber in Mowbray in 2023.

The Vrygrond Community Development Trust has picketed at Muizenberg SAPS, demanding an independent investigation into Cebisa Silwana's death. The community is skeptical about the police's ability to investigate themselves, citing concerns over police brutality and a lack of trust in the institution. Community leader Karen Mentoor emphasized that the community wants transparency and accountability in this matter. As the investigation unfolds, it remains to be seen whether the police will take responsibility for their actions and make necessary changes to prevent similar incidents in the future.

Lawyers advising clients on interactions with South African law enforcement should be aware of the ongoing investigation into Cebisa Silwana's death at Muizenberg SAPS, which may lead to changes in police protocols and procedures for handling sensitive cases.

Source: Original reporting via GroundUp