Mashatile’s VIP protection officers acquitted by SAPS: 'I feel embarrassed on their behalf' – Ian Cameron

CapeTalk's John Maytham interviews Ian Cameron, Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Police and DA MP.

Listen below:

The Democratic Alliance (DA) has condemned the acquittal of the eight SAPS VIP Protection Unit officers assigned to Deputy President Paul Mashatile, calling it a national disgrace.

The officers were filmed in 2023 brutally assaulting civilians on Johannesburg’s N1 highway, yet an internal SAPS disciplinary process found them not guilty of any misconduct.

Ian Cameron describes the outcome as deeply disappointing and indicative of systemic failure and a 'miscarriage of justice'.

"To be honest, I actually felt embarrassed on behalf of SAPS yesterday."

- Ian Cameron, Chairperson – Portfolio Committee on Police

He shares that the decision to acquit the officers was made as early as 7 April.

Cameron criticises the handling of the case, pointing to a lack of transparency and adequate oversight despite widespread public interest and scrutiny.

He suggests that political interference may have played a role in influencing the disciplinary outcome.

"If it were not for a member of the public filming it, we wouldn't have known about it."

- Ian Cameron, Chairperson – Portfolio Committee on Police

Scroll up to the audio player to listen to the interview.