Police have launched an internal investigation into an incident where members of its VIP protection unit were seen assaulting civilians.

The footage was captured on a video, which has since gone viral on social media. The officers were caught on camera brutally assaulting two people on the N1 in Johannesburg. Authorities say a preliminary report confirms that the vehicles shown in the clip indeed belong to the S-A-P-S and that the men in the video are S-A-P-S officials. The Police’s national spokesperson, Athlenda Mathe has more details:

“While the internal departmental investigation into the conduct of the members is underway, the SAPS distances itself from the conduct and behaviour depicted in the video which do not align with the values and code of conduct of the SAPS, which outlines the values and principles that all SAPS members are expected to uphold, including integrity, professionalism, accountability, and respect for human rights,” says Mathe.

Social media users took to Twitter yesterday, to express their shock and outrage at what was seen in the video:

Several good cops have informed me that these certainly were members of the SAPS. @SAPoliceService, there is nothing alleged about this. It is what it is!! https://t.co/h5e84ih263

— Ian Cameron (@IanCameron23) July 3, 2023

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

At the same time, the National Commissioner of the SAPS General Fannie Masemola condemned the behaviour of the officials. He has added that such action cannot be condoned, regardless of the circumstance.

Authorities have since traced the victims of the incident. According to Mathe the process to obtain their statements is now underway:

“The police officers involved have also been identified and will be subjected to internal processes. Management of the SAPS views this as serious and will get to the bottom of this incident,” adds Mathe.