Torture Allegations: Three South African Police Officers Face Trial in Cape Town
A disturbing incident caught on CCTV camera has led to the arrest and upcoming trial of three South African police officers accused of torturing a barber during a raid in Cape Town. The officers, Colonel Delmore Manuel, Constable Jermaine Conradie, and Constable Leigh-Ann Maroon, are set to plead not guilty to the charges when the trial begins next year.
The incident occurred on November 7, 2023, at Perfect Touch Boutique and Salon in Mowbray, where Juma Igiranieza, a barber, was allegedly assaulted by multiple officers, including one in plain clothes. The footage, published by GroundUp, shows at least two officers participating directly in the assault, while others appeared unconcerned. Igiranieza was pummelled, struck repeatedly with a wooden object, and smothered with plastic.
The accused officers made a brief appearance before Magistrate Karel Meyer on Monday, with their lawyers stating they had reviewed the video footage of the incident. When asked by Meyer whether they would plead guilty or not guilty, all three lawyers replied, “not guilty.” The matter was postponed to March 26, 2025, for trial.
The incident has raised concerns about police brutality and accountability in South Africa. The South African Police Service (SAPS) has yet to comment on whether the officers are still on active duty, with a spokesperson citing an internal matter and the ongoing disciplinary process.
The case has sparked widespread outrage, with many calling for justice and accountability for the alleged victims of police brutality. As the trial approaches, the world will be watching to see if justice is served and whether the accused officers will be held accountable for their actions.
