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The eight VIP Presidential Protection officers arrested for allegedly assaulting a motorist on the N1 highway appeared in the Randburg Magistrate’s Court on Wednesday with a highly emotional plea for bail.
The officers, who have been suspended from the South African Police Service, are facing at least 12 charges, including assault, brandishing a firearm, intentional property damage, and reckless driving.
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During their court appearance, the officers, Shadrack Molekatlane Kojana, Johannes Matome Mampuru, Pomso Joseph Mofokeng, Harmans Madumetja Ramokhonami, Phineas Molefo Boshielo, Churchill Mpakameseni Mkhize, Lesibana Aggrie Rambau, and Moses Fhatuwani Tshidada, requested bail through their lawyer.
They argued that they posed no flight risks, would not interfere with witnesses, and that continued detention would hinder their ability to contest internal police disciplinary hearings.
While Kojana denied assaulting the victims on the N1 during their first court appearance, the State has identified him, along with Mampuru and Mkhize, as officers directly involved in the alleged assault.
The charges against the officers include assault with intent to cause serious harm, attempting to obstruct justice, and assault through threats.
Additionally, two women involved in the incident, one of whom filmed it, and the driver of the assaulted off-duty SA National Defence Force members’ VW Polo, expressed fear for their safety.
Prosecutor Elize le Roux argued that the officers had acted collectively in a violent manner, justifying their ongoing detention.
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The VW Polo sustained damages amounting to nearly R95,000 from the incident. Even Rambau, who remained in her service vehicle during the altercation, was charged with failing to intervene.
The bail hearing is set to continue on Thursday, as the court deliberates the fate of the eight officers involved in the troubling incident.
Full Story Source: VIP Presidential Protection Officers Plead For Bail In Assault Case