Potchefstroom – North West police have launched an investigation into a verbal altercation between a police officer and a member of the public at Stilfontein Police Station, after a video clip of the incident began circulating on social media.
The South African Police Service (SAPS) confirmed on Sunday that the Acting Provincial Commissioner had become aware of the incident and was calling on the individual involved to come forward to assist with a formal investigation.
In a statement, police spokesperson Brigadier Sabata Mokgwabone said the conduct captured in the footage was “unacceptable,” and emphasised the need for mutual respect between officers and the communities they serve.
“It is expected of police officers and members of the public to work together and to respect one another,” Mokgwabone said.
North West Province – Stilfontein
A police officer refused to help a lady open a case instead, he used vulgar language on her. pic.twitter.com/oowzd7sEoO
— TRUTH AND SOLIDARITY MOVEMENT (@TruthMovemen) August 3, 2025
“Therefore, it is important, if police-community relations are to be restored, that an investigation should be conducted to get to the veracity of this so that future incidents of this nature can be avoided.”
Details of what sparked the confrontation remain unclear.
The SAPS has urged the person seen in the video to contact authorities to provide their version of events.
Police have not released the identity of the officer involved but said appropriate action would be taken should any misconduct be confirmed.
The incident has raised renewed concerns about the conduct of law enforcement officers and public accountability, particularly in police stations where tensions often arise.
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Compiled by Betha Madhomu
