Three local motorists were assaulted by members of the South African Police Services (SAPS) in Gauteng on Monday, 3 July.
A viral video of the incident was recorded and posted by an onlooker to social media, revealing that men emerged from two black BMW SUVs and dragged two individuals, a driver and two passengers, out of their VW Polo and onto the side of the road.
The men, who are shown to be armed with both handguns and assault rifles, proceeded to take turns kicking and beating the individuals while another searched through their car. The victims did not retaliate and attempted to hide under the road barrier for protection. One appeared to be unconscious.
Internal investigation underway
National Police spokesperson Brigadier Athlenda Mathe announced that an investigation into the matter has been launched.
The incident allegedly took place on the N1 in Gauteng near Fourways and is believed to be the result of a traffic dispute between the VW and the BMW drivers.
Mathe said that the two vehicles identified in the video belong to SAPS, and that the perpetrators were VIP escort police officers.
These are apparently VIP protection cops…happened in JHB. pic.twitter.com/fgSNNpyK7s
— Yusuf Abramjee (@Abramjee) July 3, 2023
“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 does 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,” said Mathe.
The victims have since been tracked down and are currently engaging with their lawyers and the police to provide statements on the matter.
Andrew Whitfield, the DA’s spokesperson on policing, described the perpetrators as “blue light bullies” and announced that he had engaged the Executive Director of the Independent Police Investigation Directorate (IPID) demanding that SAPS arrest the individuals responsible within 24 hours.
The National Police Commissioner, Fannie Masemola, also condemned the behaviour of the VIP squad.
“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 Masemola.
Keyword: Undercover police being investigated for assaulting motorists in Joburg