Four police officers assigned to a security staff defending South Africa’s deputy president might be charged with assault and different offenses after being caught on video kicking and stomping on not less than two males after they pulled their automotive over on a freeway, police stated Wednesday.
The weekend incident provoked outrage in South Africa after the video of the armed plainclothes officers attacking the motorists was posted on social media.
The 4 officers are dealing with charges of assault with intent to trigger grievous bodily hurt, pointing of a firearm, and malicious injury to property, police spokesperson Brig. Athlenda Mathe stated.
One of the boys who was kicked and stomped on by the officers gave the impression to be unconscious after the incident and lay immobile on his again on the facet of the freeway in Johannesburg.
At least seven officers have been concerned within the incident, with a few of them holding rifles whereas kicking and stomping on the boys.
The 4 officers dealing with prison charges have additionally been served with letters notifying them that police intend to droop them from their jobs, Mathe stated.
A spokesperson for South African Deputy President Paul Mashatile stated Tuesday that the officers have been a part of his security element, though Mashatile was not current throughout the incident.
Mashatile condemned the officers’ conduct.
The video, which was taken by an individual in one other automotive, exhibits the group of officers dragging one of many males throughout the street after which kicking and stomping on his head and physique till he lies immobile.
They additionally kicked and stomped on a second man, who holds his arms over his head to guard himself.
It’s not clear what led to the incident or who the victims have been, the video solely begins after the automotive has been pulled over by the officers, who’re touring in two black SUVs.
The incident has reignited longstanding considerations over police brutality in South Africa and in addition drawn scrutiny to the infamous unit the officers belong to.
The VIP safety unit referred to by South Africans because the “blue light brigade” gives security for high-profile politicians however is infamous for driving in convoys at excessive speeds with blue lights flashing, intimidating different motorists to get out the best way and generally reacting with power if their directions aren’t adopted.
Africanews/Hauwa M.
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