SAPS in North West condemns off-duty police officer’s actions after he allegedly assaulted a civilian


Picture: An off-duty police officer allegedly assaulted a civilian at Rustenburg Police Station premises/Video

By OBAKENG MAJE

17 December 2024- The South African Police Service (SAPS) Management in North West said it condemns in the strongest possible terms an incident doing the rounds on social media platforms, wherein an off-duty police officer is allegedly seen assaulting a member of the public at Rustenburg Police Station. 

The occurrence allegedly followed an argument that ensued in a barber shop at one of the malls in Rustenburg and involving the police officer, assault victim and other people on Saturday afternoon, 14 December 2024.

The North West police spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel Sam Tselanyane said following the incident, one of the victims went to the police station to lodge a complaint. Tselanyane said the reports suggest that the police officer also went to the police station, where he found the complainant at the parking area.

“He allegedly chased the complainant until inside the police station premises and assaulted him. The on-duty police officers’ swiftly intervened and calmed the situation.

“The victim consequently opened a case of assault against the member, who also laid a counter charge of assault. Investigation into the matter is underway,” he said.

Meanwhile, the North West Police Management pointed out that the member’s conduct is totally unacceptable and displays a total disrespect for the rule of law by a law enforcement officer.

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