Residents of Khayelitsha are demanding that officers be regularly tested to ensure that they are fit to drive. The remarks came after a police van collided with another vehicle and overturned at the intersection of Mew Way and Jafta K Masemola Road in Site C, Khayelitsha, on Sunday 13 September.

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Community member Inga Sobopha said it is shocking to see a police van involved in an accident. She said she suspected that the officers were under the influence of liquor.

They are bullies on the road

“The officers are bullies on the road. They drive as they please. I wouldn’t be surprised if the officers were drunk. At what speed were they driving for the vehicle to overturn?” asked Sobopha, adding that fortunately no one died.

Khayelitsha Safety and Security Forum chair Bonga Zamisa urged the government to investigate the cause of the incident. He stated that the incident has an impact on society as local police stations are facing limited resources.

Shortage of vans worsened

“We are pleased that there are no major injuries or any fatalities reported. However, we are appealing to the police department to investigate the matter. Khayelitsha is facing a shortage of police vans. Now, the one involved might take so long to repair, which could place a huge strain on the community,” said Zamisa.

Provincial police spokesperson Const Ndakhe Gwala said the office confirmed that Khayelitsha police opened a case of reckless and negligent driving following an accident that occurred at a robot-controlled intersection near Mew Way on Sunday at about 12:45.

Officer treated for shoulder injury

“A marked police vehicle collided with a Toyota Yaris and overturned. One officer sustained a slight injury to the shoulder and is receiving medical treatment. The circumstances surrounding the incident are under investigation,” said Gwala.