On Tuesday, the Deputy President spoke out against an incident involving his VIP protection officers allegedly assaulting three civilians on a Gauteng highway. The incident was caught on video and shared on social media, sparking public outrage.
Deputy President’s Office Confirms Incident
The Deputy President’s Office confirmed the incident and expressed dismay at the unjustified use of force against unarmed citizens. As protectors of people’s fundamental rights, the South African Police Service (SAPS) is expected to exercise their authority responsibly and judiciously.
Action Society to Support Victim
In response to the incident, Ian Cameron, a member of Action Society, tweeted that the organization would support the victim seen unconscious in the video and reveal further information and steps soon.
SAPS to Conduct Comprehensive Investigation
SAPS National Commissioner, General Fannie Masemola, assured a comprehensive investigation into the matter. The Deputy President urged the public to grant necessary space for SAPS to finalize their inquiry and implement any corrective measures required.
Implicated Officers to Face Disciplinary Procedures
The police have located the victims involved in the incident and are obtaining their statements, which form a crucial part of the ongoing investigation. The implicated officers have also been identified and will undergo internal disciplinary procedures. SAPS management considers this matter severe and vows to uncover the truth behind the incident.
SAPS Disassociates Itself from Officers’ Conduct
SAPS publicly disassociated itself from the officers’ conduct and behavior in the video, reiterating their commitment to the core values of integrity, professionalism, accountability, and respect for human rights. National Commissioner General Masemola reinforced that the police force’s role is to safeguard and respect the fundamental rights of all individuals, exercising their powers sensibly and cautiously.
Importance of Upholding Human Rights
The Deputy President’s response sends a strong message to both the public and law enforcement agencies, reaffirming the importance of upholding human rights and ensuring responsible execution of power. It is crucial for the authorities to work diligently and transparently to restore confidence in the system as the investigation continues to unfold.
