The death of a Tanzanian man in police custody in Mowbray has prompted an investigation by the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID), following conflicting reports about the circumstances leading to his death.
The man has been identified as 39-year-old Isakwisa Atupele Mwamasage, also known as Ras Isa. He died last Thursday following his arrest by Mowbray police during a stop-and-search operation.
According to police, officers noticed a suspicious man near St Peter’s Street during patrols. When they approached him, he allegedly swallowed a small quantity of drugs in his possession.
Warrant Officer Joseph Swartbooi says Mwamasage was taken into custody, but soon complained of severe stomach pains. He was transported to a nearby hospital, where he later died.
An inquest docket has been registered, and an autopsy is expected to determine the cause of death.
However, members of the Tanzanian Cape Community disputed the police’s reports, alleging that Mwamasage had been assaulted during his arrest.
Speaking to a local media outlet, the group claimed that a video circulating among community members appears to show two policemen sitting on the victim while he kicked his legs.
Speaking to the media recently, Provincial Police Commissioner Thembisile Patekile acknowledged the incident, saying that if officers are found to have acted outside of their mandate, appropriate steps will be taken.
IPID confirmed it had been informed of the case and is probing the events surrounding the arrest and death.
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