VIP bodyguards served with suspension letters

JOHANNESBURG - Deputy President Paul Mashatile's VIP bodyguards have been suspended.

This comes after they were caught on camera assaulting motorists on Gauteng's N1 highway.

The three people assaulted by Mashatile's protectors are members of the defence force.

READ: Highway assault victims are SANDF members

That's according to the South African National Defence Union.

The union says police watchdog IPID has interviewed the victims and encouraged them not to engage with police while the probe is underway. 

READ: VIP Unit Assault | Deputy President should foot the bill: Maimane

"In line with our SAPS disciplinary regulations, four of the members that are seen in the video have been served with notices from the employer with the intention to suspend them," said police spokesperson Athlenda Mathe.

"In line with the procedure, they have been given an opportunity to provide representation on why they should not be suspended."

Mathe said investigations are continuing.