Viral video sparks outrage: Security officers suspended after assault
The viral video shows security officers from ZoneWatch allegedly using excessive force during an arrest, leading to their suspension and an ongoing investigation.
Image: Facebook
A video circulating on social media showing private security officers allegedly beating a man in Plattekloof has left residents shocked.
The incident occurred on Monday and was shared by a civilian who was seated at a restaurant on the corner of Rothschild Boulevard and Plattekloof Road.
The footage shows three persons wearing ZoneWatch Security uniform cuffing the man in the middle of the intersection, before dragging him to the curb and appearing to kick and punch the man.
ZoneWatch issued a statement saying they have been made aware of the video and are busy with an investigation into the incident, and the men in question have been suspended.
They said: “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.
“We have launched an immediate internal investigation, and the officers involved have 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 this process.
“We understand the concern and anger this incident has caused within the community. We take this matter extremely seriously and are committed to addressing it as a matter of urgency.”
Meanwhile, District Group security owner Pierre Gouws said his staff arrived at the scene after the alleged assault.
He explained: “The initial arrest was not made by us as a security company, we never got involved. If it does come out that any of our guys have stepped over any boundaries, it will be dealt with decisively.”
It is not confirmed what led to the alleged assault.
Image: Facebook
The Cape Argus sister publication, Daily Voice asked one of the owners, Thomas Blatherwick, about the circumstances that led to the alleged assault and whether a case was opened at a police station.
Blatherwick said: “Due to the sensitivity of the pending investigation, I can unfortunately not share any further information with you at the moment.”
The publication reached out to PSiRA for a comment, however did not receive one before deadline.