Deputy President Paul Mashatile has confirmed that members of the VIP protection unit who were caught on camera assaulting motorists are assigned to him.
The vicious attack unfolded in full view of other motorists on the N1 highway in Johannesburg on Monday. A video making the rounds online shows the attack by the officers, some brandishing rifles.
The policemen appear to take turns kicking at the three men while they lay on the ground. One crawled for cover under the road barrier, one is seen laying on the floor, hardly moving, while the third one tried to duck the blows.
The victims of the assault did not attempt to retaliate.
“The deputy president abhors any unnecessary use of force, particularly against unarmed civilians,” said Mashatile’s office in a statement on Tuesday.
“Members of the SAPS [SA Police Service] 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.
“The deputy president fully endorses these sentiments and 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.”
National police commissioner General Fannie Masemola promised a thorough investigation.
Mashatile’s office said he has the full confidence in the SAPS under the leadership of Minister Bheki Cele and the command of Masemola to do the right thing.
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