CAPE TOWN: A video capturing armed plainclothes officers dragging a man out of a car and brutally stomping on his head until he lies motionless has sparked outrage in South Africa, shedding light on the country’s ongoing struggle with police brutality.
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According to the office of South Africa’s Deputy President Paul Mashatile, the officers involved are part of his security team. The disturbing video, which surfaced over the weekend, depicts the officers, some armed with rifles, forcefully dragging the man across the road before subjecting him to a series of kicks and stomps on his head and body. The victim appears to lose consciousness and remains motionless on his back following the assault. Another man, seen covering his head with his hands in self-defense, is also kicked by the officers.
The police protection unit responsible for safeguarding South African politicians and VIPs, commonly known as the “blue light brigade,” has developed a reputation for employing unnecessary force. The unit is notorious for speeding down highways and resorting to aggressive measures when motorists fail to promptly yield to their small blue sirens.
Police Brutalities in South Africa
Responding to the incident, Mashatile’s office issued a statement condemning any unwarranted use of force, particularly against unarmed civilians. The video, recorded by a bystander in another vehicle, was subsequently shared on Twitter, drawing widespread condemnation.
Following the incident, the officers involved, who are part of a specialized police unit, boarded two black SUVs and drove away. The video also shows a third individual lying by the side of the road in the aftermath, although it remains unclear if he was subjected to a similar assault. A woman is observed exiting the car and raising her hands above her head during the incident.
In the wake of public outcry, national police spokesperson Brig. Athlenda Mathe announced in a statement that the officers have been identified and will face internal disciplinary proceedings. Mathe also confirmed that the victims of the incident have been located and are currently being interviewed.
South Africa has been grappling with a persistent issue of police brutality. One of the most notorious incidents occurred in 2012 when 34 miners were fatally shot by police wielding assault rifles during a wage and conditions strike. In another high-profile case in 2020, a man was fatally beaten by soldiers at his home while police officers stood by.
The independent body responsible for handling police misconduct reported investigating 3,407 cases of unlawful assault by officers during the 2021-2022 financial year, averaging nearly 10 cases per day.
