SA suspends 8 cops involved in dragging Mozambican driver behind their vehicle

South Africa's police Chief on Friday suspended eight police officers involved in the death of a suspect who had been tied to the back of an official vehicle and dragged for about 500 metres.

The incident highlighted concerns about violence and abuse of power within the force and could pose a problem for a police service battling to gain the trust of citizens.

The officers were caught on mobile phone footage dragging Mozambican national Mido Macia, a 27-year-old taxi driver, behind their vehicle while driving at full speed. Officials confirmed the man later died of head injuries while in police custody.

"We view this incident in a serious light and we would want to see stern action taken against those involved. We want stern action so that it may send a message to other officers that any untoward conduct will not be tolerated," said Police Minister Siyabonga Cwele.

The incident occurred on Tuesday in Daveyton, east of Johannesburg, and was apparently sparked by an argument about Macia parking on the wrong side of the road.

National Police Commissioner Riah Phiyega also suspended the head of the local Daveyton police.

Phiyega said she was "outraged" and order an internal investigation to be headed within her office. The Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID), the body in charge of monitoring the police, is also looking into the affair.

"The incident does not reflect the conduct and practise of the South African police service in a democratic South Africa. We regret this incident. We do not accept this type of practice," she told a news conference.

Analysts say abuses within the police force are widespread. Hundreds of people die each year in police custody, many as a result of violence. Dozens of cases of torture are reported each year.