The Independent Police Investigative Directorate (Ipid) reported on Sunday night that it had arrested eight members of the SAPS VIP Protection Services attached to Deputy President Paul Mashatile.
The officers were filmed brutalizing a motorist and passengers on the N1 freeway in Johannesburg.
The disturbing video, recorded by a motorist earlier this month, caused a stir. It was later revealed that the assailants, dressed in civilian clothes, were protectors of the deputy president.
Ipid spokesperson Robbie Raburabu stated that the eight police officers had turned themselves in at the Sandton police station.
"They have been detained and processed at the Sandton police station. They will be held overnight in the police station detention cells," said Raburabu.
"The suspect members will appear at the Randburg Magistrate’s Court to face charges of assault, malicious damage to property, and discharge of a firearm on Monday, July 24th, 2023."
Days after the attack, the South African Police Service (SAPS) announced the suspension of the eight police officers involved in the assault.
The video showed officers exiting two black SUVs, extracting the driver from a blue VW Polo, and assaulting him. Passengers were also heavily assaulted.
According to national police spokesperson Brigadier Athlenda Mathe, all eight police officers involved in the N1 assault case have been suspended in accordance with SAPS disciplinary regulations.
Meanwhile, the victims of the brutal attack have hired legal representatives to ensure prosecution of the police officers. They are also exploring the possibility of filing civil claims
IOL