Footage of private security officers assaulting an unknown male suspect is circulating on social media. Several minutes long, it shows the suspect being apprehended on the corner of Plattekloof Road and Rothschild Boulevard, Plattekloof, Cape Town, before being kicked and punched by some of the officers.
The video, the origins of which were unclear, shows they are from the private security firms Zone Watch in Maitland and District Watch in Monte Vista.
TygerBurger approached both companies for comment on the incident, which occurred on Monday 6 April, around 18:00, enquiring whether they were aware of the incident, what the suspect was apprehended for and whether an internal investigation into the content of the visuals was in order.
Since then both companies have issued statements.
Zone Watch indicated that immediate action had been taken following the incident.
“We are aware of a video circulating on social media showing an incident involving armed-response officers and a member of the public. We are deeply concerned by what has occurred. The behaviour seen in the footage is unacceptable and does not reflect the values or standards we uphold as a company.”
The company said it had launched an immediate internal investigation and that the officers involved had been suspended.
“We are also currently engaging with the investigating officer from the Private Security Industry Regulatory Authority (Psira) at our offices as part of the process. We understand the concern and anger this incident has caused. We take the matter extremely seriously and are committed to addressing it as a matter of urgency.”
The company asked for patience while the investigation was conducted, so that all the facts could be established. “We will provide further updates as soon as more information is available.”
District Watch also responded, saying it acknowledged the incident reported and shared via multiple social-media platforms.
“A District Watch officer was on his way to check up on a guard when he came across three Zone Watch officers chasing after a suspect. Our officer arrived at the place where the three Zone Watch officers had apprehended the suspect. Our officer was informed the suspect had assaulted a Zone Watch officer and was apprehended.”
Zone Watch was not affiliated to District Watch.
It said a full internal investigation was underway and any disciplinary action called for would be instituted thoroughly.
“District Watch does not condone violence in any way, shape or form against any individual or organisation.”
TygerBurger was still waiting for a response from Parow police.
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