The South African Police Service (SAPS) has launched a criminal investigation and a departmental probe into the alleged assault of a motorcycle delivery driver by a police officer in Thlabane, North West. The incident, which occurred on Saturday afternoon, November 7, 2026, was captured on video and circulated on social media. The 33-year-old delivery driver has opened a criminal case of assault and crimen injuria.
North West police commissioner Lieutenant General Arthur Peter Adams has condemned the incident, expressing serious concern that the police officer was allegedly dressed in civilian clothes. Adams emphasized that police officers are expected to protect communities, uphold the law, and treat everyone with dignity and respect. He directed that the circumstances surrounding the incident be investigated internally.
The provincial commissioner reiterated that any conduct that compromises the responsibility of police officers to serve and protect communities will be addressed through the appropriate processes. Adams stated that the SAPS will not shield any member found to have acted outside the law or violated the code of conduct. Appropriate steps will be taken against the officer if the investigation establishes misconduct or a violation of the law.
The incident has sparked widespread concern, with many calling for police accountability. This is not an isolated incident, as there have been several cases of alleged police misconduct in recent weeks. The SAPS and the Western Cape Education Department are currently investigating alleged police misconduct at Walmer High School.
The CCID has also launched a probe into footage of several officers striking a man with batons as he lies on the ground. These incidents have raised concerns about police brutality and the need for greater accountability. The SAPS has assured the public that it will take swift action against any officer found to have acted improperly.
Commissioner Adams has appealed to members of the public to remain calm and allow the investigation to run its course. The SAPS is committed to serving and protecting all members of the community, and it will not tolerate any behavior that undermines this responsibility. The investigation is ongoing, and the SAPS will provide updates as more information becomes available.
The alleged assault of the delivery driver has sparked a renewed focus on police accountability and the need for greater transparency within the SAPS. The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of ensuring that police officers are held to the highest standards of conduct. The SAPS will continue to work to rebuild trust with the community and ensure that all officers are held accountable for their actions.
Key points
- North West police commissioner Lieutenant General Arthur Peter Adams has condemned the alleged assault of a motorcycle delivery driver by a police officer.
- The SAPS has launched a criminal investigation and a departmental probe into the incident.
- Commissioner Adams has directed that the circumstances surrounding the incident be investigated internally.
