Coalition Against Water Privatisation

Press Statement -1st May 2008

Last seen alive being arrested by Sebokeng police, the death of cde Mathafeni is their responsibility

Mathafeni's lifeless body was found this morning in some bushes in Sebokeng Zone 20. He was a community activist involved with the Sebokeng Ward 2 Concerned Residents that on Tuesday blockaded the Golden Highway to demand that the government respond to their memorandum, which was submitted on the 10th of March. Police arrested Mathefeni on Tuesday and beat him so badly with batons that he had to see a doctor on his release on Wednesday morning. He was re-arrested later in the evening – and last seen alive in the hands of the arresting officers.

Until an investigation proves otherwise, we, the members of the Coalition Against Water Privatisation, accuse the police of being responsible for Mathafeni's death. It is enough to know that Mathafeni was so badly beaten during his first detention that he required stitches - his re-arrest could only have been intended to continue meting out the punishment. The police have shown no compunction in resorting to live ammunition when dealing with Tuesday's protest. Death in detention is just another step up from the violence the police in Sebokeng have already shown themselves capable of.

Justice for comrade Mathafeni! Investigate the police for the death of cde Mathafeni!

For more information, contact the Coalition Against Water Privatisation organizer, Patra Sindane @ 073 052 7005.