The Deputy President has spoken out on Tuesday after a video of his VIP protection officers, allegedly assaulting three civilians on the Gauteng highway, went viral on social media.
“The Deputy President has become 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’s Office said in a brief statement.
The second-in-command, according to the statement, abhors any unnecessary use of force, particularly against unarmed civilians.
“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,” said the Deputy President.
According to the Deputy President’s Office, SAPS National Commissioner, General Fannie Masemola, has promised a thorough investigation of the incident.
“The Deputy President appeals 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.
“The Deputy President 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.”
Meanwhile, the police said they have since successfully traced the victims of this incident.
“The process to obtain their statements continues as part of the probe,” the SAPS statement read, adding that 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.”
The SAPS has since distanced itself from the conduct and behaviour and said it does not align with the values and code of conduct of the SAPS needs to uphold. These include integrity, professionalism, accountability, and respect for human rights.
“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,” Masemola explained.
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