Mashatile Bodyguards Assault Case Postponed to November After Magistrate Falls Ill
Randburg – The high-profile assault case against eight former bodyguards from Deputy President Paul Mashatile’s security detail has been postponed to November. The delay came at the last minute because the magistrate was feeling unwell and could not deliver the expected judgment. The accused appeared briefly in the Randburg Magistrate’s Court on Thursday, leaving victims and observers frustrated as they wait longer for answers in a case that has gripped the nation since a shocking video surfaced last year.
The officers, part of the South African Police Service (SAPS) VIP Protection Unit, face serious charges stemming from an alleged attack on motorists. The postponement highlights ongoing challenges in the justice system, where delays can stretch out proceedings and test the patience of those seeking justice. With no arrests or further developments reported, the matter will now be heard on 06 November 2025.
The Incident That Sparked the Case
The case dates back to July 2023, when a video went viral showing the bodyguards allegedly assaulting two people on the N1 highway in Sandton. The footage captured a brutal roadside attack, where the officers are seen pulling the victims from their car, beating them, and damaging their vehicle. This incident shocked many South Africans and raised questions about the conduct of those meant to protect high-ranking officials.
The two victims, both military veterans, were driving a VW Polo when they were stopped by the blue-light brigade. Reports suggest the assault happened after a misunderstanding on the road, leading to the men being kicked, punched, and threatened with firearms. The video’s release led to public outrage and calls for accountability, prompting the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) to press charges.
The accused face 12 counts, including assault, malicious damage to property, pointing of a firearm, contravening the Road Traffic Act, reckless and negligent driving, and defeating the ends of justice. If convicted, they could face hefty fines or jail time, setting a precedent for how such cases involving law enforcement are handled.
Section 174 Application: Bid to Dismiss Charges
Thursday’s court appearance was meant to deliver judgment on a Section 174 application brought by the defence. This legal move allows accused persons to ask for charges to be dropped if they believe the state has not provided enough evidence to prove guilt. The bodyguards argue that the prosecution’s case is weak and lacks solid proof to link them directly to the crimes.
The NPA is strongly opposing the application, insisting there is sufficient evidence, including the video and witness statements, to proceed to a full trial. State prosecutor Yusuf Baba explained the delay: “This particular matter was adjourned for today for judgment on the 174 applications due to the presiding officer falling ill.”
This is not the first postponement in the case. Earlier hearings have been delayed due to issues like water cuts at the court and health problems with the defence lawyer. These setbacks have drawn criticism from groups pushing for quicker justice.
Internal Acquittal and Public Backlash
Adding to the complexity, the eight officers were acquitted in an internal SAPS inquiry earlier this year. The department found no wrongdoing on their part, clearing them to return to duties. However, this decision has not stopped the criminal proceedings, as the NPA pursues the matter independently.
Public reaction has been strong, with many viewing the incident as an example of abuse of power by those in authority. The video, widely shared on social media, sparked debates about road rage, VIP privileges, and police accountability. Advocacy groups have rallied behind the victims, calling for transparency and fair treatment.
Action Society Voices Disappointment
Advocacy group Action Society, which has been closely following the case, expressed deep disappointment over the latest postponement. Spokesperson Juanita du Preez said: “We are disappointed because we don’t have a judgment today, and that would have shown us a way forward. We were looking forward to justice for the victims.”
Du Preez remains hopeful that the Section 174 application will fail, allowing the case to go to trial. “We don’t think this application will be successful,” she added. The group has been vocal in supporting victims of crime and pushing for reforms in how such cases are handled, especially those involving law enforcement.
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