News24 reports that Deputy President Paul Mashatile has welcomed the internal acquittal of eight of his former VIP protection officers, who were accused of attacking a motorist on the N1, after a police disciplinary hearing.
On Thursday, Mashatile appeared before MPs in the National Assembly, where he was questioned about the 2023 attack. He stated: “In this regard, I welcome the outcome of the police disciplinary inquiry that has acquitted the eight members of the presidential protection services.” Mashatile went on to state: “I must also reiterate that I am against police brutality, including any form of violence directed at members of our communities. Violence against members of the community, especially by those entrusted with upholding the law, is unacceptable and contrary to our values. My attitude was to allow all the processes to be concluded. The matter is before the courts, and yes, I think once that process is over, we’ll look at it, but I must confirm to the House that I will never condone any brutality.” Last month, police spokesperson Brigadier Athlenda Mathe said national police commissioner General Fannie Masemola would study the disciplinary chairperson’s report and consult the police’s legal services. Portfolio Committee on Police chairperson Ian Cameron indicated that he would write to Police Minister Senzo Mchunu and Masemola to demand an explanation of the internal outcome.
- Read the full original of the report in the above regard by Jason Felix at News24 (subscription / trial registration required)
- Read too, Mashatile avoids answering questions about eight VIP protection service members cleared by SAPS, at The Citizen
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