Popcru slams use of State funds for alleged cop killer’s private psychiatric evaluation

THE POLICE and Prisons Civil Rights Union (Popcru) believes that Daniel Alberts, who is accused of fatally shooting two Kimberley SAPS Flying Squad members in August 2023, should personally cover the costs of hiring the services of a private psychiatrist.

At the time of the incident, Sergeant Kedimetse Masilo and Constable Okaetse Mandindi were trying to apprehend Alberts in connection with a suspected stolen vehicle in Bloemfontein, when he allegedly overpowered and shot them.

Alberts was arrested later in Riverton and was allegedly found in possession of an R5 rifle, an unlicensed firearm, and drugs.

He underwent a 30-day evaluation by state-appointed psychiatrists at the Northern Cape Mental Health Hospital in March 2024.

It was noted during a previous court appearance that Alberts had been admitted as a patient to 27 psychiatric institutions.

A local clinical psychologist indicated that the expenses of a private psychiatrist or a psychiatric evaluation could amount to thousands of rand, with a 60-minute consultation costing approximately R2,000.

Alberts appeared in the Northern Cape High Court last week after a new legal representative under the Judicare programme was appointed to represent him.

His former legal representative, advocate Obakeng Maroke, had advised the court that there was a “conflict of interest” following various consultations with the accused.

Alberts claimed that Maroke had only consulted him for 20 minutes before his appearance on August 4, as he had not received payment from Legal Aid South Africa and was unable to travel from Mahikeng to Kimberley.

Another previous legal representative, Heinrich Steynberg from Legal Aid South Africa, also withdrew, citing a “conflict of interest”.

Senior State prosecutor Catherine Jansen requested a further postponement of two months to allow the accused to secure the services of a private psychiatrist from a list.

“The defence must submit a quote from the service provider to the Legal Aid South Africa office, where the costs will be funded by the State.”

She indicated that a report would be compiled to determine whether the accused was fit to stand trial and if he could be held accountable for his actions at the time of the alleged offence.

The matter was postponed until November 6 and Alberts remains in custody.

Popcru Northern Cape provincial secretary Mbabali Mkontwana said this was yet another delaying tactic by the accused.

“The trial has yet to start two years after the brutal murders. There is no justice for the bereaved families and children who were robbed of their loved ones,” said Mkontwana.

He argued that since Alberts had already consulted with a state-funded psychiatrist, he should be liable for the costs of a second evaluation.

“Why should the State pay for the costs of a private psychiatric evaluation? He should pay for it himself,” Mkontwana remarked.