Eight members of the South African Police Service (SAPS) assigned to Deputy President Paul Mashatile’s VIP protection unit have reportedly been acquitted internally by SAPS, despite ongoing criminal charges stemming from a high-profile assault incident on the N1 highway in July 2023.
The officers – Shadrack Molekatlane Kojoana, Johannes Matome Mampuru, Posmo Joseph Mofokeng, Harmans Madumetja Ramokhonami, Phineas Molefo Boshielo, Churchill Mpakamaseni Mkhize, Lesiba Aggrie Ramabu, and Moses Fhatuwani – are each out on R10 000 bail.
They face 12 criminal charges including assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm (GBH), pointing a firearm, malicious damage to property, reckless driving, obstruction of justice, and intimidation.
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The controversy stems from a viral video that showed the eight men, part of a SAPS VIP convoy, violently assaulting the occupants of a VW Polo on the N1 near Olivedale, Johannesburg.
The incident drew national outrage and intensified scrutiny over police brutality and abuse of power.
Accused SAPS of protecting its own
Democratic Alliance MP Ian Cameron, chairperson of the Parliamentary Portfolio Committee on Police, criticised SAPS for what he described as a “final insult to victims.”
In a post on social media, Cameron accused SAPS of protecting its own behind closed doors, saying the officers’ internal acquittal was a dangerous precedent.
Meanwhile, National police spokesperson Brigadier Athlenda Mathe confirmed that the National Commissioner would review the disciplinary findings and consult legal services.
Despite being reinstated to duty in October 2023 after their suspensions lapsed, the officers remain in non-operational roles.
Meanwhile, the criminal case continues in the Randburg Magistrate’s Court.
During the most recent hearing in February, a female victim testified that she feared for her life when officers emerged from their convoy with R5 rifles drawn, allegedly without explanation or warning.
The trial has been postponed to 10 June for further witness testimony.
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