SPU students protest at Kimberley police station over alleged hit-and-run

HUNDREDS of Sol Plaatje University students marched to the Kimberley police station calling for the arrest of a motorist who allegedly injured a first-year student this week.

A section of Phakamile Mabija Road was closed to traffic for the duration of the gathering on February 9.

Students said the injured student had to be transported by ambulance to Robert Mangaliso Sobukwe Hospital for medical treatment.

“The incident took place in the CBD near the campus. The driver attempted to flee the scene but we managed to stop him. Instead of arresting the motorist, he was allowed to drive off,” said the students.

They added that they would remain outside the police station until their demands were met.

“We are prepared to hold the police station ransom. The station commander must address us and action must be taken against the police officers who failed to arrest the suspect. How must the student’s parents react when they hear their child was badly injured? An injury to one is an injury to all.”

Case of reckless and negligent driving opened

SAPS Northern Cape spokesperson Colonel Cherelle Ehlers said a group of disgruntled university students gathered outside the Kimberley police station at approximately 8.45pm on February 9.

“The acting station commander, Colonel Nadia Kika, addressed the group. A case of reckless and negligent driving that was reported earlier that evening is under investigation,” Ehlers said.

She added that members from the Kimberley Public Order Police Unit were also on the scene.

“The group dispersed peacefully after they were addressed,” Ehlers said.

The students later in the week indicated that the injured student was recovering after she was discharged from hospital and that the motorist had made a first appearance in court.