There has been an outrage following the circulation of a video on social media, in which the VIP Protection of Deputy President Paul Mashatile is seen assaulting two people on the side of a highway in Johannesburg.
Mashatile has confirmed that members of his security team were involved in the assault of two people on the side of a highway and has called for a full investigation of the matter.
The video clip emerged on Monday, showing more than six members of the VIP protection unit allegedly assaulting two men who had been travelling in a blue VW Polo.
One of victims was left lying on the side of the freeway as the perpetrators returned to their vehicle and drove off.
The reasons for the attack are unknown, though the police have identified the officers and traced the victims.
On Tuesday Mashatile’s spokesperson Vukani Mde confirmed that the deputy president was aware of the incident.
In a statement Mde said; “The deputy president has become aware of an unfortunate incident involving members of the SA Police Service who are attached to his protection detail and civilians which occurred in Johannesburg over the weekend.
The deputy president abhors any unnecessary use of force, particularly against unarmed civilians. The national police commissioner General Fannie Masemola has promised a thorough investigation and articulated the conduct expected of police officers very well.”
Four members of the VIP Protection Unit involved in this incident have already been served with letters of suspension.
Reacting to the incident, Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) issued a statement on Tuesday, saying it has noted it with concern and strongly condemned the behaviour, which does not align with the values and code of conduct of the South African Police Service (SAPS).
“The role of the police is to, among other things, prevent, combat, and investigate crime, maintain public order, protect and secure the inhabitants of South Africa, and uphold and enforce the law.
The vast majority of law enforcement officers perform their very difficult jobs with respect for their communities and in compliance with the law”, said Mde.
The statement also encouraged members of the community to speak up whenever they see incidents of police brutality or abuse of power.
GCIS said for any police misconduct, members of the public can open a case at their nearest police station and if police fail to assist, community members can lodge a complaint with the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) for an investigation.
IPID, formerly the Independent Complaints Directorate (ICD), is an agency of the South African government responsible for investigating complaints against the South African Police Service and municipal police services.
People who were assaulted by police can open a case at the policing area where the incident happened.
Upon receiving a case number they go to IPID office and update them.
Victims who are afraid to open a case at the police station can still inform IPID about what happened and they will take the matter up with the Station Commander.