WATCH: Man who beat up police member in viral video arrested

A member of the public assaulted a police officer who confronted him about public drinking in Springs, Gauteng on Tuesday, 20 December. The incident was captured on video and subsequently went viral on social media.

POLICE ASSAULTED IN VIRAL VIDEO

South African Police Service (SAPS) spokesperson Brigadier Brenda Muridili said the incident occurred while two members were conducting a routine patrol on Tuesday.

The members came across a group of five individuals drinking in public. When the members warned the group about public drinking, one of the men became violent and assaulted the male police officer.

In the video, the police officer has his firearm in his hand and does not retaliate when the suspect hits him.

“The suspect then fled the scene. Back-up was called and the suspect was arrested later in the evening,” said Muridili.

The suspect is expected to appear before the Springs Magistrate’s Court on Thursday, 22 December, on charges of assaulting a police officer.

MORE ON THIS: WATCH: Police stoned after trying to stop Makhanda street party

In 2021, footage of an attack on SAPS members in Makhanda surfaced. The police tried to stop a group from drinking in public and blocking the road.

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