Police watchdog, the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID), is investigating the death of a 31-year-old man at Delft Police Station, who was found hanging in the cells on Tuesday.
Police sources reveal the man’s docket had not yet been opened and that he had been left in the cell still wearing his shoelaces which were supposed to be removed.
It has not been revealed why the man was arrested.
A source at the cop shop says staff found the man hanging by his shoelaces.
He says the man’s death could have been prevented and accused officers of not following proper procedure.
“This man was just brought inside, they were still going to open the docket.
“They put the suspect inside the passage (at the cells) and they didn’t remove the man’s shoelaces.
“When they came back, they found him hanging there.
“They didn’t follow procedure.
“When a suspect is processed, his shoelaces and belt must be removed.
“We are shocked and we do not know why he was arrested.”
Police spokesperson Sergeant Noloyiso Rwexana confirms the incident and says: “A death inquest case has been opened for investigation after a 31-year-old man was found hanging in a cell.
“The circumstances surrounding this incident are under investigation by IPID.”
Meanwhile, the Delft Police Station has become the latest cop shop to be closed after an employee tested positive for Covid-19.
Service is continuing in a mobile unit.
genevieve.serra@inl.co.za