Viral Video Sparks National Outrage, Masemola Calls for Respect and Accountability
Keywords: Westbury SAPS attack, Fannie Masemola, police brutality response, SAPS viral video, Gauteng crime, community-police tensions, SAPS statement
WESTBURY, GAUTENG – National Police Commissioner General Fannie Masemola has strongly condemned the recent attack on SAPS officers by residents in Westbury, following the circulation of a viral video showing officers being assaulted.
The incident has ignited national concern over community-police relations, with the Commissioner warning that violence against law enforcement will not be tolerated.
📹 What Happened?
In the widely shared footage, SAPS officers are seen being confronted and physically attacked by a group of residents. It’s unclear what triggered the confrontation, but the video shows chaotic scenes, with uniformed officers retreating under threat.
Masemola labelled the actions as criminal and unacceptable, calling on the community to allow the law to take its course instead of resorting to mob justice.
🗨️ SAPS Statement
“Attacks on police officers are attacks on the rule of law itself. We cannot allow a situation where our members are targeted while carrying out their duties,”
said General Masemola, adding that SAPS is investigating the incident and will pursue criminal charges against those involved.
🔍 Tensions in Westbury
Westbury has long grappled with gang violence, drug crime, and strained police-community relations. While some community members claim police heavy-handedness, others have called for increased patrols and visible policing.
📌 What’s Next?
- SAPS has deployed additional resources to stabilise the area
- An internal investigation will review officer conduct and community allegations
- Arrests are expected following the identification of suspects in the video
Masemola concluded his remarks with a plea for community cooperation:
“We are here to serve and protect — not to fight our people.”
