Shocking assault by VIP protection officers requires ‘speedy’ investigation – WATCH

A video of a shocking incident showing South African Police Services (SAPS) VIP protection officers appearing to assault motorists in Gauteng has gone viral and led to outraged calls for a speedy and thorough investigation into the officers’ conduct. Watch the video below.

AfriForum is one of many demanding the investigation be “speedy”, and claims this is not the first time members of this unit have abused their powers.

What makes this incident even more shocking, says AfriForum, is that it has now been confirmed that this security detail was assigned to Deputy President Paul Mashatile.

“We welcome the fact that the SAPS has already started an investigation into the matter, but unfortunately this type of behaviour has become a calling card of these units. There have been numerous instances of bullying behaviour by these officers,” says Jacques Broodryk, AfriForum’s spokesperson for Community Safety.

“Their reckless behaviour and driving have also caused accidents, such as in the case of 18-year-old, Thomas Ferreira, who was hospitalised in a critical condition after being knocked off his bike by a member of the then Gauteng MEC, Humphrey Mmemezi’s security detail in 2011. No one is above the law and the police should act swiftly to ensure these bullies are reminded of that.”

WATCH VIP Protection Officers allegedly assault motorists in Gauteng

SAPS’ statement on VIP Protection Officers’ assault

The SAPS says they have successfully traced the victims of this incident, and the process to obtain their statements continues as part of the investigation.

“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,” said SAPS.

In a statement last night, SAPS said while “the internal departmental investigation into the conduct of the members is underway, the SAPS distances itself from the conduct and behaviour depicted in the video which do not align with the values and code of conduct of the SAPS, which outlines the values and principles that all SAPS members are expected to uphold, including integrity, professionalism, accountability, and respect for human rights.”

The National Commissioner of the SAPS, General Fannie Masemola has condemned the behaviour of these 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.