Cape Town – Motorists allegedly assaulted by members of Deputy President Paul Mashatile’s security detail in July have expressed disappointment that the implicated individuals have returned to work.
Shocking footage of the alleged assault led to the suspension of eight members of the SAPS VIP unit.
However, according to police spokesperson, Athlenda Mathe, their suspensions were lifted in accordance with SAPS disciplinary regulations, allowing them to work in office-based roles, EWN reported.
The lawyer representing the motorists said that his clients were disappointed with this development but relieved that the officers won’t serve as VIP protection officers while internal investigations and disciplinary proceedings are ongoing.
The motorists are also preparing a civil claim for damages against the police minister and the implicated individuals in their personal capacities, while the criminal case remains pending in court.
A video showing Mashatile’s protectors assaulting individuals on the N1 highway in Johannesburg went viral on social media.
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Compiled by Betha Madhomu
