Security guard axed after viral assault video in Plattekloof
A ZoneWatch security officer have been suspended following an alleged assault captured in a viral video, as investigations by the authorities continue.
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A private security officer has been dismissed after a viral video surfaced, allegedly showing him assaulting a man. Other officers involved in the incident remain suspended as investigations continue.
This follows after a video circulated on social media which saw two private security companies assaulting a man last Monday at the corner of Rothschild Boulevard and Plattekloof Road, Plattekloof.
In an updated statement on Friday, ZoneWatch Security owner Thomas Blatherwick confirmed that the officer seen in the footage had been dismissed with immediate effect.
Blatherwick said the company is continuing to cooperate with both the South African Police Service (SAPS) and the Private Security Industry Regulatory Authority (PSIRA) as their investigations unfold.
He said: “We can confirm that the security officer that assaulted the member of the public has been dismissed with immediate effect.
“However, we continue to work closely with the authorities (SAPS and PSIRA) in assistance with their ongoing investigations.
“All other officers involved are suspended pending the outcome of their respective investigations. The security officer’s medical report and a full incident report was handed over to SAPS as part of the investigation.
“The attack on the officer was confirmed in a statement released on social media earlier this week by another security company.”
He further appealed to members of the public to allow the investigation to take its course.
Blatherwick added: “We are concerned about threats directed at our staff and operations and urge that this matter be handled responsibly and within the law.”
Meanwhile, PSIRA said it had taken note of the video and had already launched a preliminary investigation into the conduct of the officers involved.
They said: “PSIRA strongly condemns any acts of violence, abuse, or misconduct by security officers.
“Such actions are in direct violation of the Code of Conduct for Security Service Providers, 2003, which requires security officers to “at all times act in a lawful manner and respect the rights, dignity, and interests of all persons.”
“The Authority has initiated a preliminary investigation into the incident to establish the facts.
“Any security companies and security officers found to have violated the PSIRA Act or contributed to the assault will face strict regulatory action, including possible suspension and/or withdrawal (deregistration) of registration, upon conclusion of the investigation.”
Police spokesperson Colonel André Traut previously confirmed that SAPS is also investigating the matter.
Traut said the violent conduct shown in the video is being viewed in a serious light and that all available leads are being pursued.