A video capturing a disturbing incident of alleged assault by members of the South African Police Service (SAPS), on the N1 highway near Fourways, Gauteng, has prompted an internal investigation.
UPDATE: On Tuesday, 4 July 2023, Gauteng police confirmed that the victims of the N1 Fourways assault were successfully traced. “The process to obtain their statements continues as part of the probe. The police involved have also been identified and will be subjected to internal processes,” spokesperson Brigadier Athlenda Mathe confirmed in a statement.
WATCH: SAPS unit caught on camera assaulting motorists on N1 Fourways
From what we understand, SAPS management has taken immediate action upon becoming aware of the footage circulating on various media platforms.
In a statement, Gauteng police confirmed that efforts are underway to identify and locate the victims seen in the video to obtain their statements, while an internal departmental investigation is being conducted.
What’s been gathered so far is that the vehicles featured in the video indeed are registered assets of the South African police, and the individuals shown in the N1 Fourways assault are, as a matter of fact, SAPS members.
However, the SAPS unequivocally distanced itself from the behaviour exhibited in the video, emphasising that such conduct contradicts the organisation’s values and code of conduct.
The SAPS, through its set of principles encompassing integrity, professionalism, accountability, and respect for human rights, expects all members to uphold these standards.
“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 do 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,” the statement read.
General Fannie Masemola, the National Commissioner of the SAPS, chimed in on the N1 Fourways assault video and strongly condemned the actions of the involved members.
He added that members of the SAPS are entrusted with the responsibility to protect and uphold the fundamental rights of every individual, exercising their powers responsibly and within prescribed limits.
“Such action cannot be condoned regardless of the circumstance,” Gen. Masemola said.
Check out the N1 Fourways assault video below:
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In light of the incident, the victims are urged to come forward and assist with the investigation.
Brigadier Athlenda Mathe, who is overseeing the case, can be contacted at 082 040 8808 for this purpose.
By cooperating with the authorities, the victims can play a crucial role in shedding light on the incident and ensuring that justice is served.