Durban police officer caught with bank card belonging to hijack victim denied bail! A Durban-based police constable, Minenhle Makhaye, has been denied bail following allegations of using a bank card linked to a hijack victim’s family.
The 27-year-old officer, stationed in Cato Manor, was arrested earlier this month after allegedly using the bank card to make unauthorized purchases.
Allegations of Misconduct and Unauthorized Purchases
Makhaye was taken into custody after allegedly using a bank card belonging to Zarah Ramsamy’s mother to buy R1,000 worth of alcohol. The case has sparked public concern, as Makhaye’s actions have raised questions about misconduct within law enforcement. The incident has led to calls for stringent measures to ensure police integrity, especially given that the card’s misuse is tied to a high-profile hijacking incident.
In response to the arrest, the Durban Magistrate’s Court denied Makhaye’s bail application following a lengthy hearing, with the court scheduling the case for further investigation on November 25, 2024. The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) spokesperson in KwaZulu-Natal, Natasha Ramkisson-Kara, confirmed that bail had been denied due to the ongoing probe into the circumstances surrounding the allegations.
Possession of Multiple Bank Cards Raises Concerns
State Advocate Calvin Govender presented evidence that, in addition to the card used to purchase alcohol, Makhaye was found with 105 other bank cards. The discovery has raised suspicions of additional misconduct or illegal activities, prompting a deeper investigation into the extent of his actions and the potential implications for other victims. The presence of numerous bank cards suggests the possibility of systematic misuse or involvement in a broader criminal operation.
Authorities are working to determine whether the possession of these cards relates solely to this case or if there are connections to other unsolved incidents. The unusual finding of so many bank cards has fueled speculation and has led investigators to consider the possibility of larger criminal networks or activities in which Makhaye might be implicated.
Tragic Background: Zarah Ramsamy’s Hijacking Incident
The events surrounding the bank card theft stem from a tragic hijacking incident involving 11-year-old Zarah Ramsamy, who was killed after hijackers ran her over while escaping with her parents’ car. The heartbreaking incident occurred in a fast-food outlet’s parking lot, where Zarah, a fifth-grade student, was caught in the path of fleeing hijackers. Shocking CCTV footage of the incident went viral on social media, sparking widespread grief and outrage among the public.
Makhaye’s connection to the case arose when he was called to assist in transporting the recovered hijacked vehicle from Cato Manor to the Malvern police station. It was during this process, according to authorities, that he allegedly took possession of the bank card and later used it unlawfully.
Charges and Court Proceedings
While Makhaye is implicated in the bank card misuse, he is not currently facing charges related to the hijacking or Zarah’s death. Police officials have clarified that his arrest pertains only to the alleged theft and misuse of the card, as well as his possession of numerous other bank cards.
Law enforcement agencies have expressed their commitment to ensuring that Makhaye’s actions do not undermine the public’s trust in the police.
In light of the case, the South African Police Service (SAPS) released a statement clarifying Makhaye’s involvement. Officials noted that his presence during the vehicle’s recovery in Cato Manor was standard protocol.
However, they emphasized that Makhaye’s alleged theft of the card during this time constitutes a serious breach of duty and reflects poorly on police conduct.
A Case Highlighting Police Accountability
Makhaye’s alleged actions have placed a spotlight on the importance of accountability within law enforcement. Cases like these emphasize the need for strict monitoring and robust mechanisms to prevent abuse of power among those entrusted with public safety.
The incident has prompted calls for a thorough review of internal procedures and enhanced measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Next Steps in the Investigation
As the case progresses, the Durban Magistrate’s Court has scheduled further investigations for late November. Authorities are working to establish a clear timeline of events and are investigating whether any additional charges should be filed against Makhaye. The probe will continue to examine the origin of the bank cards found in his possession and any possible links to other criminal activities.
This case underscores the challenges faced by law enforcement agencies in maintaining public trust amidst allegations of misconduct. As investigations unfold, there is hope that justice will prevail and that any breaches in police protocol will be addressed to uphold accountability.
The post Durban police officer caught with bank card belonging to hijack victim denied bail appeared first on News365.co.za.
Zim Instantly via Simplex Solutions