Suspect arrested in connection with attack on JMPD officer
One suspect has been arrested after a group of congregants attacked a JMPD officer in Hillbrow on Sunday.
Violent scenes erupted in Hillbrow when a group of church congregants attacked Johannesburg Metro Police officers on Sunday afternoon.
The Johannesburg mayor, Herman Mashaba, has confirmed that a suspect has since been arrested.
"I am happy to announce the arrest of a suspect by the South African Police Services (SAPS), following the assault of JMPD officer, Siphiwe Sebati, yesterday," Mashaba says.
The attack took place after JMPD officials attempted to tow an illegally parked vehicle belonging to a member of the Revelation Church of God in Claim Street in Hillbrow.
JMPD says the vehicle was causing traffic congestion.
"These were JMPD officers carrying out their lawful duties and serving the public. This wasn't just an attack on the JMPD or Officer Sebati, but an attack on the rule of law within the City," Mashaba adds.
Sebati sustained several injuries - after he was kicked to the ground - and was rushed to the hospital following the attack.
He has since been discharged.
The suspect is expected to appear in court within the next 48 hours.
The South African Municipal Workers Union (Samwu) has condemned the attack.
"Officers must be given the space to maintain law and order and the total implementation of the city's by-laws," says Samwu general secretary Simon Mathe.
In a video, church members are seen surrounding the officer who retreated but the group proceeded to confront him.
The officer then fired warning shots in an attempt to disperse the group.
However, the group proceeded to disarm and assault the officer.