Issued by: Office of the National Commissioner
MEDIA STATEMENT BY THE OFFICE OF THE NATIONAL COMMISSIONER: SA POLICE SERVICE
Pretoria: 1997-03-20
(Clarifying statement re investigation into death of Assistant Commissioner Leonard Radu)
The public interest generated by the tragic death of Asst Cmr Radu, Head of Internal Security, requires clarification of the investigation into his death to avoid misperceptions.
In short, the most comprehensive and exhaustive investigation possible - and in which every potential avenue of investigation will be pursued - is now being conducted.
Having said that, the SAPS must caution against giving undue credence to any one specific avenue of investigation at this stage.
Foul play in any form has not yet emerged as the decisive factor in the probe. However, this possibility will by no means be discounted until the final investigation is complete.
A preliminary post mortem has indicated that Cmr Radu died from massive internal injuries.
However, what must at this stage be established is the cause of his vehicle veering out of control and into incoming traffic on 12 March near the Isando turnoff on the R24 Highway, at 06:30.
Various scenarios have emerged for investigation, including:
Toxicological and other tests are therefore being conducted to determine the exact cause of the accident and of Cmr Radu's death.
Only once such tests and other investigative processes have been completed will the SAPS be in a position to finally determine the judicial basis on which Cmr Radu's death must be handled.
Until such time, the present investigation is based on the principle that nothing will be overlooked and that no possibility can be excluded.
An appeal is again made to any witnesses to the accident to contact Director Bushie Engelbrecht at 082 800 8110.
INQUIRIES: SENIOR SUPERINTENDENT SALLY DE BEER: 082 808 3735.