The eight members of the police’s VIP Protection Services Unit who are accused of assaulting three members of the army on the N1 highway in Johannesburg weeks ago are expected to appear in court on Monday.
These suspended officers will appear in the Randburg Magistrate’s Court on charges of assault, malicious damage to property and firing a firearm.
The eight handed themselves over to the police at the Sandton police station on Sunday, after which they were arrested.
The arrest follows after the DA lodged a complaint with the Independent Police Investigation Directorate (Opod) which led to the investigation against the police officers.
“The DA welcomes the officers’ arrest. The blue light bullies should be treated like all other violent criminals after this violent unprovoked attack. The criminal justice system must carry out its duties without fear,” says Andrew Whitfield, the DA’s shadow police minister.
“We will be monitoring the case closely as it highlights the importance of holding those in positions of power accountable for their actions. The safety and well-being of our citizens must never be compromised, and we trust that the legal process will ensure that justice prevails for the victims and their families.
“As a society we must condemn all abuse of power.”
RNews earlier reported that a storm erupted at the beginning of July after a video of the alleged assault by the police – all members of deputy pres. Paul Mashatile’s presidential protection unit – has seen the light on social media.
It can be seen in the video of the incident how officers from the police’s VIP protection services pluck three occupants from a Volkswagen Polo along the highway before these men are repeatedly kicked. The police officers then jump back into their BMWs and drive away.
