Masemola issues warning after attack on Kimberley cop

NATIONAL police commissioner General Fannie Masemola has issued a stern warning to those who attack police officers, saying they will face the full might of the law, following a viral video showing a female officer being assaulted in the Kimberley CBD.

- SIMON MAJADIBODU

His warning comes after the arrest of two men who allegedly assaulted a female police constable during crime prevention duties in the Northern Cape on Monday.

The incident, which was captured on video and has since gone viral, shows a man attacking the officer and pulling off her weave while she was carrying out her duties.

Members of the public attempted to intervene, and a second police vehicle arrived shortly afterwards to assist the officer. Provincial police spokesperson Brigadier Mashay Gamieldien confirmed that two suspects were arrested on the scene by fellow SAPS members.

The suspects face charges of assaulting a police official, resisting arrest, defeating the ends of justice, and malicious damage to property.

The officer sustained minor injuries and received medical attention. Masemola made the remarks ahead of the SAPS's safer festive season operations launch in Bloemfontein, Free State.

He warned community members, especially those who show disregard for the police uniform, that attacks on law enforcement personnel would not be tolerated.