Blue light bullies must be arrested and face justice

4 July 2023

SAPS VIP unit members involved in assaulting civilians captured in viral video must immediately be arrested.

The DA demands the full force of the law to be applied, including public disclosure if linked to Deputy President Mashatile's protection unit.

This incident can not be swept under the carpet.

Please find attached a soundbite by Andrew Whitfield MP.

The members of the South African Police Service (SAPS) VIP policing unit assaulting unarmed civilians in video that went viral last night must be arrested immediately and justice must be served swiftly and unequivocally.

These blue light bullies have displayed a shocking abuse of power.

It is not enough for these offenders to face internal disciplinary processes within the SAPS. We demand that they be arrested and subjected to the full force of the law.

The video evidence, along with the prima facie evidence in the possession of the SAPS, clearly identifies the perpetrators. The SAPS is now obligated to take immediate action and ensure their apprehension.

Furthermore, if the reports linking these bullies to Deputy President Paul Mashatile's protection unit are accurate, this information must be disclosed to the public without delay. South Africans deserve to know the truth about the individuals entrusted with their safety and security.

We emphatically state that nothing about this incident, absolutely nothing, may be allowed to be swept under the carpet.

Transparency, accountability, and the preservation of public trust demand that swift and decisive action be taken against these offenders. The DA will continue to advocate for the rights and safety of all citizens, ensuring that those who engage in such despicable behavior face the consequences of their actions.

Issued by Andrew Whitfield, DA Shadow Minister of Police, 4 July 2023