Don't take the law into own hands

LEPHALALE – During a community policing forum (CPF) meeting on Thursday, the new police station commander, Lt. Col. Daniel Ramokgoakgoa, asked that the community not take the law into their own hands.
He explained that every person has basic rights and these are relevant even when people are arrested.
“A good arrest can easily be spoilt if community members assault a suspect before he is detained.”
Lt. Col. Ramokgoakgoa explained that it is not always necessary to use force when affecting an arrest. In fact, it is preferred to not use violence at all if possible. “We are all guided by the law when dealing with suspects and it is clear that the absolute minimum force should be used to arrest a suspect.”
On the issue of bail, he added that when suspects are granted bail by the court, the matter is out of the police’s hands.
“Every person has the right to bail and the court will decide whether a person will be granted bail based on certain prescribed factors.”