ActionSA expresses deep concern and outrage following the circulation of a disturbing video depicting a South African Police Service (SAPS) constable allegedly assaulting a civilian at the Volksrust Police Station in Mpumalanga.
According to reports, the incident, which occurred on 02 April 2026, shows a bare-chested man being repeatedly slapped, dragged, and assaulted inside the police station in full view of bystanders and other officers. The victim is seen collapsing during the ordeal, while onlookers plead for the officer to stop.
ActionSA notes that both internal and criminal investigations have been initiated, and that the matter has been referred to the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) for further handling.
ActionSA maintains that this incident represents a gross abuse of power and a betrayal of public trust by those entrusted to uphold the law.
Police stations must be places of safety and justice, not sites of brutality. The alleged actions of this officer, if proven true, are a direct violation of the constitutional rights of the victim and undermine confidence in law enforcement across our province.
ActionSA further raises concern about the apparent failure of other SAPS officials present during the incident to intervene, calling into question the culture of accountability within SAPS.
ActionSA therefore calls for:
The immediate suspension of the officer involved, pending the outcome of investigations.
A transparent and expedited investigation by both SAPS and IPID.
Consequence management that reflects the seriousness of the offence.
Broader institutional reforms to ensure that such incidents are not repeated.
ActionSA maintains that police brutality cannot and must not be normalised. The rule of law must apply equally to all, including those tasked with enforcing it.
The people of Mpumalanga deserve a police service that is professional, accountable, and committed to protecting the dignity and rights of every resident.
ActionSA Calls for Swift Accountability Following Alleged Police Assault in Volksrust
ActionSA expresses deep concern and outrage following the circulation of a disturbing video depicting a South African Police Service (SAPS) constable allegedly assaulting a civilian at the Volksrust Police Station in Mpumalanga.
According to reports, the incident, which occurred on 02 April 2026, shows a bare-chested man being repeatedly slapped, dragged, and assaulted inside the police station in full view of bystanders and other officers. The victim is seen collapsing during the ordeal, while onlookers plead for the officer to stop.
ActionSA notes that both internal and criminal investigations have been initiated, and that the matter has been referred to the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) for further handling.
ActionSA maintains that this incident represents a gross abuse of power and a betrayal of public trust by those entrusted to uphold the law.
Police stations must be places of safety and justice, not sites of brutality. The alleged actions of this officer, if proven true, are a direct violation of the constitutional rights of the victim and undermine confidence in law enforcement across our province.
ActionSA further raises concern about the apparent failure of other SAPS officials present during the incident to intervene, calling into question the culture of accountability within SAPS.
ActionSA therefore calls for:
The immediate suspension of the officer involved, pending the outcome of investigations.
A transparent and expedited investigation by both SAPS and IPID.
Consequence management that reflects the seriousness of the offence.
Broader institutional reforms to ensure that such incidents are not repeated.
ActionSA maintains that police brutality cannot and must not be normalised. The rule of law must apply equally to all, including those tasked with enforcing it.
The people of Mpumalanga deserve a police service that is professional, accountable, and committed to protecting the dignity and rights of every resident.