Father shot at close range with rubber bullets during a protest gets damages award

A FATHER of four who was shot at close range by police with rubber bullets in the aftermath of a service delivery protest, which he did not partake in, is to receive R250000 in damages.

- ZELDA VENTER

Plus, the SAPS have been ordered to also pay him a further R104700 towards his future psychological treatment following his nightmare ordeal.

Tebogo Gasetingwe was shot in the thigh and arm while he was standing outside his car after a protest, to ensure that his family inside the car was safe.

He turned to the North West Division of the high court, sitting in Mahikeng, where he made his claim for R500 000 in damages from the police.

The 38-year-old broke down in tears as he testified about his harrowing ordeal. The police, meanwhile, opted to call no witnesses to refute his version, and conceded liability.

Gasetingwe testified that he sustained his livelihood by operating a tuckshop, and he was also engaged in community affairs as a liaison officer.