A general in the South African Armed Forces (SAAF) is said to have instructed the victims of the recent blue light assault incident on the N1, all members of the armed forces, not to speak to the media.
Adv. Pikkie Greeff, secretary of the army union Sandu, says the union is in discussion with the army to obtain all relevant information and get the complete picture.
“As an organisation, we cannot quickly draw conclusions or get involved in image polishing campaigns. Our primary focus is always the welfare and safety of our members – above anything else.”
Greeff says Sandu is committed to making sure that the rights and interests of its members are protected and any allegations that have an impact on their welfare are viewed in a serious light.
“We will continue our discussions with the SANW to understand the circumstances surrounding this alleged instruction. Once we have obtained all necessary information and understand the situation, we will provide further information. Sandu remains committed to transparency, the advancement of our members and the values that guide our organization.”
RNews earlier reported that members of deputy pres. Paul Mashatile’s protection unit was involved in the incident that took place this past weekend on the N1 highway in Gauteng. 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 BMW X5 vehicles and drive away.
All eight members have since received letters of possible suspension. The police officers have also since been withdrawn from their posts and will be office-bound pending the outcome of a disciplinary investigation.
