A police sergeant is facing scrutiny after failing to charge a woman suspected of public drinking, following the release of a viral video showing a heated exchange at the Pretoria Central police station. The incident has sparked debate, with some criticizing the suspect’s behavior while others question the officer’s actions.
Ngathi ziningi izinkinga ezikhona ezweni uma kunje. pic.twitter.com/aOUl1sLZsp
— Sihle Mavuso (@ZANewsFlash) January 2, 2025
The video captures the suspect, who identified herself as an international lawyer, arguing with the officer and resisting arrest. She can be heard questioning the basis of her detention and asserting her status:
“What are you arresting me for? Was I the one driving? You stopped the wrong person. I even asked you if you know who you’re speaking to. I’m going to show you [who I am]. Not even a constable can do anything to me when I didn’t do anything wrong. We need to respect one another, we are humans.”
The incident has prompted an internal investigation, with station commander Brigadier Hlengani Mashaba confirming that the sergeant has been reassigned to administrative duties pending the outcome.
#sapsGP Police Sergeant under investigation for failing to charge alleged public drinking suspect (SAPS Pretoria Central CSC viral video)
The video of a police sergeant exchanging words with an alleged drunk woman, taken at Pretoria Central police station police was brought to… pic.twitter.com/xbNJgPW515
— SA Police Service 🇿🇦 (@SAPoliceService) January 3, 2025
“Immediate action was taken against the sergeant, who has been moved away from the front service,” the South African Police Service (SAPS) stated on X (formerly Twitter).
According to a preliminary report, the sergeant and her team encountered the suspect drinking alcohol inside her vehicle during a routine patrol. Public drinking is considered an offense. The suspect was transported to the police station, but no case was registered, and detention protocols were not followed. The suspect was subsequently released without charges.
The situation has divided public opinion. Some have criticized the suspect’s confrontational demeanor, with Joburg Public Safety MMC Mgcini Tshwaku expressing concern about the treatment of law enforcement officers.
“I think the police are being abused, and it’s not right,” Tshwaku remarked. “There are other ways things can be sorted out. The community must wait to be processed, and she can call her lawyers without shouting at the police.”
The incident has reignited discussions around public behavior, respect for law enforcement, and police accountability. SAPS has assured the public that the investigation will address any procedural lapses while also evaluating the conduct of all parties involved.