Zambian Sues Police P2.5 Million For 'Unlawful' Shooting

Lebogang Mosikare
Correspondent | Monday March 18, 2013 00:00

Hahlani was shot by police on his left thigh on or about September 4, 2012 in a bush near Selepa in Francistown. Detective Sub-Inspector Amogelang allegedly shot him for trespassing.

According to the statutory notice to sue filed by Hahlani's lawyer, Anthony Manenji of Manenji Attorneys, the police officer who shot Hahlani did so under the scope of his duty as a police officer who was on patrol.

The notice adds that the shooting renders the government of Botswana liable to the assault. The notice also says that Hahlani was seriously injured and is living with great pain as a result of the shooting. It adds that he is permanently disabled and disfigured and cannot walk without the use of crutches.

It further says that government is liable to pay Hahlani P2.5 million for future medical expenses, for permanently having lost the capacity to walk again. It further says Hahlani will be greatly prejudiced in future when he wants to use amenities of life.

When Hahlani appeared in court on Friday, the prosecution applied for his further remand in custody from the trespassing charge.

However his attorney prayed that his mention and trial dates be expedited because Hahlani has been languishing in jail for over five months without much progress being made on the case.

Magistrate Sijabuliso Siziba then ordered that Hahlani appears in court today for mention.