A security officer has been dismissed from his position after a troubling video went viral, capturing the harsh treatment of a man at a busy intersection in Cape Town, Cape {town} Etc reports.
The footage, which surfaced on Monday and was recorded by a civilian dining at a nearby restaurant on the corner of Rothschild Boulevard and Plattekloof, shows three officers in ZoneWatch Security uniforms restraining the man before dragging him to the curb, where they are seen kicking and punching him.
Responding to the outcry from the public, ZoneWatch Security initiated an internal investigation immediately after becoming aware of the incident.
Initially, the company announced the suspension of the officers involved as they cooperated with authorities, including the South African Police Service (SAPS) and the Private Security Industry Regulatory Authority (PSIRA).
On Friday, ZoneWatch released an updated statement confirming the immediate dismissal of the officer seen assaulting the man in the video. ‘We continue to work closely with the authorities in assistance with their ongoing investigations,’ the statement read.
The company emphasized its commitment to treating the incident with urgency. All other officers implicated remain suspended pending the outcomes of their investigations.
The security firm categorically condemned the actions depicted in the video, labelling them as utterly unacceptable. In their statement, they clarified that the violent behaviour exhibited by the officer violated the organisation’s principles and standards of conduct.
‘The action taken by the security officer, following an attack and attempt to take his firearm by the member of the public, is inconsistent with the company’s standards, training, and values. Such behaviour is not condoned under any circumstances,’ they stated.
As part of the investigation, ZoneWatch has submitted a medical report concerning the security officer along with a full incident report to SAPS. Another security company corroborated the officer’s claims regarding the provocation he faced during the incident.
ZoneWatch is currently conducting an internal review of its operational procedures, training protocols, and decision-making processes, particularly in situations that extend beyond the standard purview of private security duties.
The company recognises the legal limitations within which private security providers must operate, particularly in relation to contracted clients and private properties. This review aims to ensure appropriate responses to potential threats in the future.
Furthermore, ZoneWatch has acknowledged the responsibility of all individuals present during the incident to act appropriately and affirmed this will be factored into the ongoing investigation.
They are calling for the public to exercise patience as the relevant legal processes unfold. The firm also expressed concern over threats directed at its staff and operations that have emerged following the video’s circulation, urging the community to engage with the matter responsibly.
‘We remain committed to accountability and transparency. We thank our clients and members of the community who have engaged with us constructively during this time,’ the company concluded.
Video: Viral Plattekloof security assault video sparks outrage
A video circulating on social media (originally shared on Facebook) has sparked widespread outrage after allegedly showing private security officers assaulting a man in the Plattekloof/Panorama area, Cape {town} Etc reports.
The footage, which emerged on Monday, 6 April, shows a group of officers apprehending a man at the corner of Rothschild Boulevard and Plattekloof Road. Several of the officers appear to kick, stomp and strike the individual during the incident.
The video was recorded from a nearby restaurant overlooking the scene.
Those involved have been identified by their uniforms and vehicles as members of Zonewatch Security and District Watch Security.
Zonewatch Security has since confirmed that three officers have been suspended. In a statement, the company said it is ‘deeply concerned‘ by the incident, adding that the behaviour seen in the footage is ‘unacceptable‘ and does not reflect its standards.
The security agency confirmed that an internal investigation is currently underway.
District Watch has also launched its own investigation, distancing itself from the alleged assault. The group maintains that only Zonewatch officers were involved.
In its own statement, the group affirmed, ‘A District Watch Officer was on his way to check-up on a guard when he noticed three Zonewatch officers (not affiliated to District Watch in any way, shape, or form) chase a suspect…the District Watch officer radioed senior officers to assist at the scene at this time.’
Western Cape SAPS have also confirmed that the matter is under investigation. Police spokesperson Colonel Andrè Traut said, ‘All available leads are currently being pursued. The victim has not yet been interviewed as part of the investigation. The violent conduct displayed in the video by the security personnel involved is viewed in a serious light.‘
All available leads are being pursued, although the victim has not yet been interviewed.
Authorities are treating the conduct shown in the video seriously as investigations continue. On the public outrage, Zonewatch expressed, ‘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.‘
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Picture: Screenshot from video
