A video clip circulating on social media has gone viral, capturing an assault by the SAPS VIP Police Unit on the occupants of a vehicle registered in Ladysmith, KwaZulu-Natal.
The disturbing footage shows the officers dragging, beating, and kicking the helpless two individuals on the ground. The incident took place on the N1 in Fourways. Johannesburg and was filmed by another motorist.
The Democratic Alliance (DA) Shadow Minister of Police, Andrew Whitfield, expressed deep concern regarding the video.
“The footage is highly distressing and raises serious concerns about the conduct of those who are supposed to uphold the law. The brutal and unwarranted attack by half a dozen heavily armed men, allegedly SAPS members, on unarmed motorists cannot be condoned and immediate action must be taken,” stated Whitfield.
He emphasised the need to hold the perpetrators accountable by arresting and charging them with assault, pointing out that their identification could be easily established from both the video and the registration of their official vehicles.
Whitfield stressed that the breakdown of law and order, as well as the perpetuation of violence against innocent South Africans, cannot be tolerated. He called upon the Minister of Police to ensure the immediate arrest and imprisonment of those responsible.
Furthermore, Whitfield referred the incident to the Executive Director of the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) for a comprehensive investigation and appropriate action.
“It is essential that a comprehensive probe takes place to determine the circumstances leading to this incident and to hold those responsible accountable for their actions,” he added.
In response to the incident, SAPS spokesperson Brigadier Athlenda Mathe confirmed that the SAPS has launched an investigation and has successfully located the victims.
“The process to obtain their statements continues as part of the probe. The police officers involved have also been identified and will be subjected to internal processes. Management of the SAPS views this as serious and will get to the bottom of this incident,” assured Mathe.
She made it clear that while the internal departmental investigation is underway, the SAPS disassociates itself from the conduct and behaviour depicted in the video. Mathe emphasised that the actions of the offending officers contradict the values and code of conduct of the SAPS, which emphasise integrity, professionalism, accountability, and respect for human rights.
The National Commissioner of the SAPS, General Fannie Masemola, strongly condemned the behaviour of the implicated members.
“Members of the SAPS are meant to uphold and protect the fundamental rights of every person and exercise the powers conferred upon them in a responsible and controlled manner. Such action cannot be condoned regardless of the circumstance,” said Gen Fannie Masemola.
As investigations into the incident are now underway, it is crucial to hear your thoughts on the matter. Please share your views in the comment section below.
