Mpumalanga – The South African Police Service (SAPS) in Mpumalanga has launched disciplinary proceedings against a police officer accused of assaulting a female community member inside a police station after a video of the alleged incident circulated widely on social media.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, SAPS said police management had viewed the footage “with concern and dismay” and confirmed that the officer involved had been identified.
“Police Management in Mpumalanga has noted with concern and dismay a video circulating on social media platforms in which a police officer is seen assaulting a female member of the community at a police station,” the statement said.
SAPS confirmed that disciplinary action had already been initiated against the officer.
“The police officer involved has since been identified, and departmental disciplinary processes have been instituted against him,” the statement said.
The police service condemned the officer’s alleged actions, saying they were inconsistent with the values and responsibilities of law enforcement officials.
“Such conduct is unacceptable, unlawful and goes against the values and code of conduct of the South African Police Service,” SAPS said.
“Police officers have the responsibility to protect lives, uphold the law and serve with integrity and professionalism.”
SAPS also reaffirmed its commitment to combating gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF), stressing that the matter would be dealt with through the appropriate legal processes.
“The SAPS remains committed to the fight against Gender-Based Violence and Femicide and assures the public that the law will take its course without fear or favour,” the statement read.
The police service urged the alleged victim to formally report the incident so that a criminal investigation can be launched.
“The female community member is urged to open a criminal case so that the matter can be investigated by the relevant department.”
It remains unclear when the alleged assault took place or at which police station the incident occurred. SAPS has not released the identity of the officer involved, and no criminal charges have yet been announced.
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Compiled by Betha Madhomu
