Govt outraged at assault video

The woman was reportedly beaten for allegedly shoplifting. A video clip showing the incident has since been widely circulated on social media.

"No person has the right to infringe the dignity of another, irrespective of the circumstances," Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) acting CEO Phumla Williams said yesterday.

Williams urged the public to the refrain from spreading the video clip as it is disrespectful and infringes on the rights of the victim, her family and the community at large.

"These acts perpetuate immorality and work against building a society where there is respect for human life and dignity," she said.

The five who have been accused of the assault appeared in the Nebo Magistrate's Court on Monday.

Two of the five accused received bail of R500 each, while the other three remained in custody because they have a record for similar assault allegations.

Police spokesperson Brigadier Hangwani Mulaudzi says the incident happened last year in October but the women never opened a case until someone notified the police of the video.

A case was then opened in April and the five were arrested last week.

Williams urged citizens to refrain from taking the law into their hands and rather report all incidents of crime to the police or relevant law enforcement agencies.

"We call on all citizens to partner with government in creating safer and more secure communities. Government remains committed to ensuring that all South Africans feel and are safe," said Williams.