N1 assault: SAPS disciplinary acquits Mashatile protectors

The officers were part of the VIP Protection Unit of Deputy President Paul Mashatile.

They were caught on camera assaulting a civilian next to the N1 in Johannesburg in July 2023.

In a statement, Cameron has described their acquittal as shameful, indefensible and immoral.

"The acquittal of the members is not only a miscarriage of justice but also puts the name and image of the SAPS into disrepute. Furthermore, this decision strengthens the public perception of SAPS officers being and acting above the law. This decision lacks legal and moral justification and should be reconsidered.

"With the worsening trust deficit between the police and communities, such decisions will further erode the low levels of trust that exist between the police and the people. Moreover, the ruling entrenches the long-held committee’s view that internal disciplinary mechanisms within SAPS are inadequate and rewards rogue officers."

Cameron added that the decision will further cement the public’s perception of a complete disregard of consequence management within the SAPS.

"This decision sends a wrong message to all South Africans about the lack of recourse when SAPS members abuse their authority. It also portrays a SAPS that lacks compassion and care for victims of abuse; one that is preoccupied with protecting each other and not the citizens.

"This was not due process, but weaponised bureaucracy funded by taxpayers. What is even more infuriating is that the SAPS paid an amount of over R112 000 just for the Chairperson’s expense, which should be classified as fruitless and wasteful expenditure."

Cameron says he will write to the Minister of Police and the National Police Commissioner to demand an explanation for this outcome. 

"The committee will, for its part, consider legislative reforms to end the abuse of internal processes in SAPS and to limit the obstructive role of unions in misconduct cases.

"We cannot accept a SAPS that protects thugs in uniform. We will not sit silently while the rule of law is trampled upon behind closed doors."

Meanwhile, National police spokesperson Athlenda Mathe said, "The National Commissioner will study the chairperson of the disciplinary hearing's report and consult legal services."