Ray Nkonyeni Municipality investigates bodyguards' misconduct

The Ray Nkonyeni Municipality (RNM) is set to launch an internal investigation following the arrest of two of its bodyguards.

The pair were apprehended last week for allegedly using blue lights without authorisation, driving recklessly, and carrying unlicensed firearms.

The municipality's spokesperson Simon April confirmed their intention to delve deeper into the allegations, which they regarded as concerning conduct.

“It is alleged that the two officers were apprehended on Tuesday on charges that include reckless driving, illegal use of blue lights, impersonating a police officer, and the possession of a firearm without a valid licence,” April stated.

At the time of their arrest, the bodyguards were reportedly travelling in an official vehicle designated for the municipality's deputy mayor.

Contrary to speculation, April assured that the deputy mayor was not present in the vehicle at the time, as he was engaged in a full council meeting.

April said that the municipality was committed to the rule of law and accountability.

“The municipality wishes to place on record that RNM upholds and promotes the principles of legality, accountability, and strict compliance with all laws and regulations governing the conduct of municipal employees, including those relating to road traffic, the use of state resources, and public safety,” said April.

In light of the incident, local authorities have indicated that the SAPS will lead a thorough investigation.

Alongside this, RNM has initiated its own internal processes aimed at uncovering the facts and implementing suitable measures in accordance with municipal policies and legislative frameworks.

The municipality, via April, assured citizens that the matter would be approached with diligence and transparency, alongside procedural fairness.

On the issue of these bodyguards not having firearm licences, April clarified the matter saying the firearms the bodyguards were carrying were municipal firearms. “The bodyguards were charged for failing to produce firearms licences on the scene, not that they do not have documentation for those firearms,” April said.

When the bodyguards were apprehended, the two bodyguards were stopped by the Road Traffic Inspectorate (RTI) on the N2 Freeway, near Scottburgh, clocking 180 km/h in a 120 km/h zone.

“We welcome the cooperation from the Ray Nkonyeni municipal manager, who has offered to ensure consequence management,” KZN Transport's spokesperson Ndabezinhle Sibiya added, noting that the blue lights allegedly used by the bodyguards had been confiscated as evidence, along with the official BMW X5.

DAILY NEWS