Letter of demand to Masemola

For attention: National Commissioner, Lt Gen Sehlahle Fannie Masemola / Deputy National Commissioner, Lt Gen Bonang Mgwenya

Subject: Employment status and legal costs of accused VIP Protection members in the ‘Blue Light Mafia’ case

Lt Gen Masemola and Lt Gen Mgwenya,

I am writing to you to express my profound concern about the recent developments surrounding the eight VIP members whose case is currently before the courts.

As a proud citizen of this country, I must declare that my trust in the South African Police Service is at an all time low. I am asking myself: Should I stop for a cop? The video of the Blue Light VIP officers attacking four victims in Johannesburg wants to convince me to think twice.

Now, we learned that because these officers are still employed by the SAPS, the legal fees for their defence could be paid by the SAPS.

As a taxpayer, I object in the strongest terms the misappropriation of my tax money to fund the SAPS members that are in custody for a violent crime – whether it is for their legal costs or for their salaries.

I demand clarity on the following:

Termination of employment

Please confirm whether the contracts of the eight VIP members have been terminated. If not terminated, please confirm that their suspension will continue WITHOUT pay. The SAPS need to take a strong stance against corruption and lawbreaking.

Legal cost for defence

Please provide confirmation on who is footing the bill for the accused officers’ defence. Taxpayers should not be burdened with the costs arising from misconduct by officials who were entrusted to safeguard our democracy.

Please acknowledge receipt of my email and reply at your earliest convenience

Yours sincerely,

Your name. Your email address