NPA vows justice in Kimberley cop assault case

THE NATIONAL Prosecuting Authority (NPA) has assured the public that the two brothers who were arrested for allegedly assaulting a female police officer in Beaconsfield will face trial before a court of law.

The accused, Adriaan Ramzan, 21, and Antonio Ramzan, 25, were released on warning after appearing in the Kimberley Magistrate’s Court last week.

During the incident, which was captured on social media, the accused allegedly assaulted and manhandled police officers. They were charged with interfering with SAPS members, assault with intent to do grievous bodily harm (GBH), and malicious damage to property.

NPA Northern Cape spokesperson Mojalefa Senokoatsane noted that the charges were serious.

“The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) in the Northern Cape views this matter in a serious light and is giving it close attention. Upon the accused’s first court appearance, where they applied for bail, the prosecutor recommended bail of R1,000 based on the information contained in the docket at the time. The docket then contained no injury statements, no video footage, and no record of pending cases against the accused.

“After considering arguments by the defence regarding affordability, the court exercised its discretion and released the accused on warning. The NPA emphasises that release on warning or bail does not amount to an acquittal. The accused remain before the court to answer to the serious allegations against them.”

He added that the NPA remained committed to ensuring that those who attacked or undermined law enforcement officials were held accountable in terms of the law.

“The matter has been remanded to November 25 for further investigation. Outstanding evidence includes the J88 medical form, injury statements, witness statements, and video footage of the incident.”

Senokoatsane urged communities to allow court processes to unfold without interference and to respect the work of law enforcement and prosecuting authorities.

“Attacks on law enforcement officials undermine the foundations of democracy, and the rule of law will be upheld without compromise.”

The Acting Director of Public Prosecutions for the Northern Cape, advocate Hannes Cloete, appealed to members of the public to respect the rule of law and the authority of the courts.

“The criminal justice system must be allowed to operate without fear, favour, or prejudice. All accused persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty. However, anyone found to have transgressed against law enforcement officials will be dealt with appropriately by the courts,” he said.