Free State police commissioner Lieutenant General Baile Motswenyane has responded to a viral video circulating on social media, which shows a woman, reportedly a complainant in a domestic violence case, being assaulted by women dressed in police uniform at the Heidedal Police Station.

Bloemfontein Courant reports that, according to police spokesperson Brigadier Motantsi Makhele, SAPS is treating the matter with the utmost seriousness. “The matter is currently under investigation by the Independent Police Investigative Directorate, and, simultaneously, internal investigations are underway to establish the full circumstances surrounding the incident,” Makhele states.

The incident has sparked public outrage, with calls for the immediate removal of the officers involved. SAPS management in the Free State acknowledged these concerns but stressed that any disciplinary action must follow due legal processes.

“We understand and respect these concerns. However, it is important to clarify that in accordance with our labour laws, there are established legal and procedural frameworks that govern the suspension or removal of members from their duties. Such actions can only be taken following the outcomes of formal investigations, which will inform management’s decisions appropriately,” Makhele explains.

He emphasises that while SAPS does not condone misconduct or abuse of power, it is essential to ensure fairness and due process. “This includes allowing the involved members the opportunity to provide their side of the story. Understanding the full context, including events that may have occurred prior to the incident captured in the video, is crucial for a comprehensive assessment,” he says.

SAPS has reassured the public that the matter will be handled with transparency and accountability. “We assure the public that this matter will be handled with the seriousness it deserves, and appropriate action will be taken based on the investigative findings,” Makhele states.

He urges the community to allow the investigation to unfold without interference. “We appeal to the community to allow due process to unfold and to refrain from spreading unverified information that could compromise the integrity of the investigations,” he concludes.

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