The Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) has confirmed it will investigate the circumstances surrounding the arrest of Feroz Khan following a controversial police operation in Johannesburg.
Khan was arrested on Sunday during a high-profile raid at his apartment in Houghton. However, police are reported to have initially targeted the wrong unit belonging to another man with the same name, before forcing entry by breaking down the door. Officers later realised the error and proceeded to the correct apartment.
The arrest formed part of a broader operation targeting an alleged illegal precious metals syndicate.
Khan, along with Major-Generals Ebrahim Kadwa and businessman Tariq Downes, appeared in the Kempton Park Magistrate’s Court on Monday. They face charges including contravention of the Precious Metals Act and defeating the ends of justice.
The trio were each granted R20,000 bail. Conditions of their release include a prohibition on interfering with investigations or contacting witnesses. The State did not oppose bail.
They have also been ordered to surrender their passports to the investigating officer by 12 May and to notify authorities at least 72 hours before any intended travel.
The matter has been postponed to 14 July to allow further investigation.
Meanwhile, Khan’s former father-in-law, who attended court in support, reportedly expressed anger over the manner in which Khan was treated during the arrest.