A police sergeant from Tsakane is facing disciplinary action after a video surfaced showing her slapping a member of the public who sought answers at the local police station. The clip, which has gone viral on social media, depicts a man questioning police about a gender-based violence (GBV) case, including allegations that officers failed to assist a woman attempting to file a report. In the footage, the man expresses frustration over the treatment of the woman, claiming she fell asleep at the station after being denied assistance. Following a brief confrontation, the uniformed officer approaches the man, slaps him, and pushes him. She then attempts to seize the cell phone of the person recording the incident.
Police spokesperson Colonel Dimakatso Nevhuhulwi confirmed that the South African Police Service (SAPS) is aware of the video, stating, “This behaviour is uncalled for, and the SAPS code of conduct advocates for clients to be treated with respect and integrity at all times.” Both the sergeant and the member of the public have since opened cases of assault and crime injuria against each other. An internal disciplinary case will also be initiated against the police sergeant, Nevhuhulwi added, highlighting the commitment to addressing misconduct within the force. The incident has raised concerns about police conduct, particularly in handling sensitive cases related to gender-based violence.
MEC to release findings from investigative report into racism allegations at Pretoria School for Girls
Gauteng MEC for Education, Sport, Arts, Culture & Recreation, Matome Chiloane, is set to unveil the findings of an independent investigative report concerning Pretoria High School for Girls on Monday. The investigation was initiated after reports emerged that black learners were subjected to discrimination, including allegations that white students created a WhatsApp group to discuss their black peers. Students claimed that despite lodging complaints, the school’s principal and management did not take appropriate action. They also alleged that white learners received preferential treatment from teachers, prompting concerns that systemic racism was present within the institution.
In July, twelve learners were suspended in connection with these allegations, but they were subsequently found not guilty in a disciplinary hearing held in August. Nonetheless, the Gauteng Department of Education decided to pursue an independent investigation to address the broader issues raised by the learners. AFRI Forum has criticized the department’s decision to conduct an independent investigation, arguing that it undermines the authority of the school’s governing body. Alana Bailey, representing AFRI Forum, stated, “Learners who had been accused were found not guilty during a disciplinary hearing. This illustrates that some education authorities may have an agenda against school governing bodies.”
The MEC will hold a briefing at the school on Monday to present the findings of the investigation, as the community awaits clarity on the steps to be taken to address the reported issues of racism and discrimination within the school.
