Question NW3207 to the Minister of Police
14 December 2017 - NW3207
Groenewald, Dr PJ to ask the Minister of Police
(1)What is the reason why the sheriff recently seized computer equipment at the Tzaneen Police Station; (2) (a) what other equipment and/or furniture was seized at the specified police station and (b) what steps have been taken to retreive the items; (3) whether he will make a statement on the matter?
Reply:
1. Joubert and May Attorneys, from Tzaneen, obtained a warrant of execution for an outstanding taxed legal cost, in a civil matter that was supposed to be paid by the State Attorney, in Pretoria. The company’s consultant attorney was not registered on the State Attorney’s database for payments, causing a delay in payment. The warrant of execution was served to the Station Commander, in Tzaneen, on 7 September 2017. The Sheriff at Tzaneen, on instruction of the attorney, removed seven computers from the Tzaneen Police Station, on 9 October 2017. After liaison with the instructing attorney and the State Attorney, it was agreed that the outstanding legal cost will be paid directly to his account, by the SAPS. On 10 October 2017, the instructing attorney addressed a letter to the Sheriff, indicating that the computers can be returned to the Tzaneen Police Station. The seven computers were returned on 11 October 2017. The payment of R33 956,72, was made on 12 October 2017 and was deposited, on 18 October 2017.
(2)(a) No other equipment was seized, only the seven computers were removed.
(2)(b) Not applicable.
3. For the Minister to decide, whether a statement will be made.