CCN News
Cape Town:- Western Cape Director of Public Prosecutions, Advocate Nicolette Bell, has reaffirmed the State’s opposition to bail for the 11 Anti-Gang Unit (AGU) members, accused of tAGU Murder Case.
Picture – Western Cape Director of Public Prosecutions, Advocate Nicolette Bell.
The brutal murder of Manenberg resident Wade Price.
Speaking on the ongoing investigation, Bell emphasised the severity of the allegations: “A murder was committed while [officers were] on duty, heinously so.” She stressed the importance of public trust in law enforcement, noting that evidence indicates due process was not followed during the interrogation linked to a double murder probe.
“SAPS officials must be trusted when doing their work, and communities need assurance that arrested individuals will be safe in custody,” Bell said. She added that bail opposition is supported at this stage to protect the unfolding. investigation and community interests, given the Schedule 6 offences involved. That including murder, kidnapping, assault GBH, and torture. Bell cautioned against comparing this case to others, insisting decisions are evidence-based, and urged against sympathy, solely because the accused are young officers entrusted with public safety.
Picture – Western Cape Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant General Thembisile Patekile.
Western Cape Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant General Thembisile Patekile, expressed personal unhappiness over the arrests, but affirmed respect for the judicial process. “I’m not happy that our members are arrested… but we’ll leave that to the courts and IPID investigation so we don’t interfere,” he said.
Patekile noted that internal support, including legal representation applications and employee wellness programmes, is available through standard processes. He revealed plans to fill vacancies by deploying 50 new recruits straight to the AGU after training in January, with interviews and assessments underway.
The 11 officers remain in custody, with formal bail hearings scheduled at the Athlone Magistrates’ Court.
CCN will keep readers updated
