PHUTI MOSOMANE
The Deputy President Paul Mashatile has confirmed that members of his protection unit were involved in an assault incident said to be on the N1 in Joburg, captured on a video which went viral on social media and angered many South Africans.
The members of the VIP unit were seen on the video brandishing an assortment of firearms, dragging a man on the tarmac, kicking him all over his body while he lay there motionless.
Next to him was another youngster who was trying to protect his face from the barrage of kicks from the men, some in suites while others wore sneakers and jeans. It wasn’t clear from the footage what sparked the brutal assault on the men but there was a stationary car parked on the side of the road.
Mashatile spokesperson Vukani Mde said the Deputy President became aware of an unfortunate incident involving members of the South African Police Service (SAPS) 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 Commissioner of the SAPS, General Fannie Masemola, has promised a thorough investigation of the incident and articulated the conduct expected of police officers very well.
“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,” he said.
He added that Mashatile appealed to the public to allow the SAPS the necessary space to complete its investigation into the incident and take whatever corrective action is deemed necessary.
Mashatile said he has full confidence in the SAPS under the leadership of Minister Bheki Cele and the command of General Masemola to do the right thing in this regard.
Leader of the Build One SA movement Mmusi Maimane urged Mashatile to visit the families of the victims and apologise for the conduct of the security detail.
“The buck stops with you as the principal. You must compensate the families for medical costs incurred and trauma. Show that you have Ubuntu!” he said.
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