By: Natasha Archary

All 8 VIP Protection Unit members who were arrested for assaulting unarmed civilians in July, have been released on bail of R10 000 each.
The security detail of Deputy President Paul Mashatile appeared at the Randburg Magistrates Court, on Tuesday, 01 August, for their bail hearing.
Shadrack Molekatlane Kojoana, together with his team members, Johannes Matome Mampuru, Pomso Joseph Mofokeng, Harmans Madumetja Ramokhonami, Phineas Molefo Boshielo, Churchill Mpakamaseni Mkhize, Lesibana Aggrie Rambau and Moses Fhatuwani Tshidada, face 12 charges including:
- pointing a firearm
- reckless and negligent driving
- malicious damage to property
- assault with intent to do grievous bodily harm
- obstruction of justice
- assault by way of threat
The 8 men were recorded, dragging and violently assaulting 3 male occupants of a blue VW Polo, after forcing the vehicle onto the side of the busy highway on Sunday, 02 July.
With the help of the South African National Defence Force (SANDF), the three victims were identified as SANDF trainees.
According to Magistrate Hlengiwe Mkhabisi, the 8 members of Mashatile’s security detail deserve bail because the state failed to present evidence to keep them in custody.
All 8 have been warned against making contact with applicants or witnesses, and have been ordered not to interfere or intimidate any of the above.
The matter will be back in court on 27 September.
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