Durban Metro Police disputes reports linking commissioner to suspect's death
Head of the eThekwini metro police, Sbonelo Mchunu.
Image: File
The eThekwini Metro Police has sought to clarify the circumstances of a robbery incident after media reports linked Metro Police Head Commissioner Sbonelo Mchunu to the alleged death of a suspect.
The Metro Police issued a statement on Monday regarding a robbery incident that took place last year in the oThongathi (Tongaat) area.
This follows media reports linking Mchunu to the alleged death of a suspected thief. The reports had stated that Mchunu had been a victim of a robbery and alleged that he called junior Metro police officers to search an area where the suspected thief might have gone.
The report claims that a man was detained and allegedly assaulted during questioning by officers. He later died. The report also alleged that Mchunu was robbed of his firearm.
In a statement, the Metro Police disputed the account of the incident.
“There appears to be a distortion of information regarding this matter. To clarify, in December 2024, a robbery took place at a tollgate in Tongaat, during which one of our Durban Metro Police members was the victim of the crime.
“It is important to place on record that it is not true that a firearm was stolen. The case was officially opened at Tongaat SAPS under case number 230/12/2024, and SAPS has been leading the investigation from the outset. For any detailed enquiries regarding the investigation, SAPS should be contacted directly as they are the primary investigating authority.”
According to the statement, following the robbery, a joint operation led by SAPS, the Hawks, and the Durban Metro Police was conducted, acting on information provided by Crime Intelligence. This resulted in the apprehension of six suspects.
“As the matter is currently before the court (sub judice), no further details may be provided at this stage, as doing so could compromise the criminal proceedings.
“The Durban Metro Police Service reaffirms its commitment to supporting SAPS in their mandate and ensuring justice is served,” said the statement.