Blue light bullies must be brought to book

03 July 2023

The DA is deeply disturbed by a video on social media showing members of the SAPS VIP policing unit assaulting civilians with firearms, raising concerns about the conduct of law enforcement.

The brutal attack by armed men on unarmed motorists cannot be condoned, and immediate action should be taken to arrest and charge the perpetrators.

The DA has referred the incident to the IPID for investigation, emphasizing the need for accountability and a professional police service in South Africa.

The DA is deeply disturbed by the video circulating on social media showing individuals, who appear to be members of the South African Police Service (SAPS) VIP policing unit in official vehicles in Fourways, engaging in the physical assault of two civilians by the roadside while brandishing their firearms. The footage is highly distressing and raises serious concerns about the conduct of those who are supposed to uphold the law.

The brutal and unwarranted attack by half a dozen heavily armed men, allegedly SAPS members, on unarmed motorists cannot be condoned and immediate action must be taken. Has the ANC government lost that much control of the country that armed thugs allegedly on government business can savagely beat, kick and threaten motorists just trying to get home or get to work?

The attack, filmed by a motorists on the N1 in Fourways, cannot be swept under the table. The perpetrators must be arrested and charged with assault within 24 hours. These brazen bullies can be easily identified from not only the video but also from the registration of their official vehicles.

The breakdown of law and order and the perpetuation of violence on innocent South Africans cannot be tolerated. The Minister of Police has the responsibility to have the perpetrators arrested and imprisoned immediately.

I have this evening also referred this incident to the Executive Director of the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) for thorough investigation and appropriate action. It is essential that a comprehensive probe takes place to determine the circumstances leading to this incident and to hold those responsible accountable for their actions.

South Africa deserves a police service that is professional, accountable, and committed to upholding the rights and safety of all citizens. The Democratic Alliance remains committed to ensuring that those who betray the public trust face the full consequences of their actions, and that our country's law enforcement agencies are restored to their rightful role as defenders of justice and protectors of our democracy.

I will do everything in my power to ensure that these Blue Light Bullies are brought to book. I have already engaged the Executive Director of IPID and will be demanding that Minister Cele ensure SAPS arrest these thugs within 24 hours. pic.twitter.com/n1PaOAXcin

— Andrew Whitfield, MP (@andrewhitfield) July 3, 2023

Statement issued by Andrew Whitfield MP - DA Shadow Minister of Police, 3 July 2023