Mbabane – Mdzangwini community police officer Machawe Maduna, 56, has been convicted of assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm after he attacked Sibahle Salelwako, beating him with a log and verbally insulting him by calling him a “dog” in the presence of Royal Eswatini Police officers.
Court evidence revealed that the assault occurred even after official police had arrived to take control of the scene. Witnesses testified that Maduna struck Salelwako repeatedly, causing injuries later confirmed by a medical report, which showed bruises consistent with assault.
During the trial, the defence argued that Maduna was protecting himself and acting in his role as community police to maintain order, claiming the complainant was confrontational. The court dismissed this argument, ruling that community police powers end once the Royal Eswatini Police are present, and any further action, including assaulting suspects, is unlawful.
The magistrate noted that Maduna’s actions amounted to unprovoked and unjustified criminal conduct, as there was no need to use force once official police officers were in control. “Community police are only authorised to assist police in keeping peace and order, not to assault offenders,” the magistrate said.
During mitigation, Maduna pleaded for leniency, explaining that he has ten children, most of whom are in high school, and that he is struggling financially. He described himself as “Lazarus, with no cent” and requested to continue providing for his family. He admitted that community police sometimes make mistakes while performing their duties and asked the government to provide training on handling offenders without violating the law.
The court found Maduna guilty as charged, ordering him to pay a fine of E2,000. In default of payment, he will serve two years in prison.
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