ASSAULT: ZoneWatch security officers suspended
Image: Facebook
The alleged assault of a man by private security in Plattekloof is now the subject of a police investigation.
This comes as District Watch officers caught in the viral assault video are also under investigation by their company after footage appeared to contradict earlier claims that their personnel were not involved.
The incident on Monday was shared by a member of the public who was seated at a restaurant at the corner of Rothschild Boulevard and Plattekloof Road.
The footage shows three ZoneWatch Security officers cuffing the man in the middle of the intersection before dragging him to the curb and appearing to hit and kick him.
ZoneWatch stated that they have launched an immediate internal investigation, and their officers have been suspended.
District Group security were also seen in the footage.
Owner Pierre Gouws previously said his personnel arrived at the scene after the alleged assault took place.
He explained: “The initial arrest was not made by us as a security company; we never got involved with what happened. If it does come out that any of our guys have stepped over any boundaries, it will be dealt with decisively.”
The security company also issued a statement on Tuesday saying an officer was on his way to check up on a guard when he noticed three ZoneWatch officers attempting to chase a suspect.
It said that “it was the ZoneWatch officers who assaulted the suspect. The District Watch officer radioed senior officers to assist at the scene at this time.”
However, allegations have since emerged that one District Watch officer assaulted the man, another “manhandled” him, and a third officer was on the scene, but did not participate in any assault.
ARREST: It is alleged that the victim attacked one of the officers
Image: Facebook
Gouws said: “Management is still investigating those guys. They will be called in to write a report, and once all the reports are completed, they will take action against anybody who has done anything wrong.
“If they have done something that is against the law and regulations, or anything that is not within the frame of the law or our company policy, they will be punished accordingly.”
Police spokesperson Andrè Traut said SAPS is investigating the incident.
“The South African Police Service is aware of a video circulating on social media depicting an alleged assault involving private security personnel in the (Plattekloof) area.
“The matter is now the subject of a police investigation, and all available leads are currently being pursued.
“The violent conduct displayed in the video by the security personnel involved is viewed in a serious light.”
Cape Times