The family of Mthokozisi Ntumba, who was killed by police during a student protest last week, says the arrest of four policemen connected to his death is the first step for justice but only conviction will bring them closure.
The Independent Police Investigative Directorate (Ipid) on Monday announced that it has arrested four police officers from the public order policing unit in connection with Ntumba's death.
The four, who are yet to be identified, will appear in the Johannesburg magistrate’s court on Wednesday to face charges of murder, three counts of attempted murder and defeating the hands of justice.
Ntumba’s cousin Sthembiso Jwara said the family has been made aware of the arrest and it has given them hope.
“We want to see those who did this terrible act [killing Ntumba] face the consequences of their actions. Obviously, the arrest is the first step in the legal process. Our hearts will find some comfort when these people get convicted. Nevertheless, we are happy that there are people that have been arrested,” Jwara said.
Ntumba was killed during a protest by students at Wits University last week. The young town planner had just visited his doctor with a stomach problem when police fired rubber bullets at him from close range, according to witnesses.
Jwara said the family had not decided if they would be able to attend court proceedings on Wednesday.
“We are still finalising the funeral arrangements. We will have to see as the family if it is possible for some to come and represent us in court. Our focus for now is to ensure that we give our brother a funeral that we all desire,” he said.
Jwara said Ntumba’s wife has had a difficult time grieving as she is also part of the preparations for her husband's funeral.
“She is trying her best. Obviously it is very difficult and painful. She is not speaking to the media because she is grieving... She is trying to cope but there is a lot that needs to be done,” Jwara said.
Ipid spokesperson Ndileka Cola said evidence regarding who was in charge of the police officers on the ground on the day Ntumba died would be revealed in court.
Ntumba will be buried back in his home in Bergville, northern KwaZulu-Natal, on Saturday.
EFF leader Julius Malema said his party will help to “ease” the burden that the family is carrying in preparing for the funeral.
Malema also committed his party to help Ntumba's family to sue the state.
Police and Prisons Civil Rights Union (Popcru) spokesperson Richard Mamabolo said the union was not aware who the officers arrested for Ntumba's killing were.
“It is a matter that we still need to verify and look into. We have not received any information about their full names and when they are appearing [in court]. It is regrettable that such an incident happened," said Mamabolo.
He said police had failed to implement recommendations of the Farlam Commission which was instituted after the Marikana Massacre. The commission recommended that the use of force in public order policing needed to be reviewed and that automatic weapons had no place in public policing.
