Mashatile claims he became aware of the blue-light assault 'at home'
Deputy President Paul Mashatile says he was not present when members of his security detail were caught on camera assaulting three men on the N1 in Johannesburg in July.
However, he confirmed that he was in the convoy, which rushed him home during the incident.
Mashatile answered questions in the National Council of Provinces on Thursday.
Eight officers from the Presidential Protection Unit attached to Mashatile have since appeared in the Randburg Magistrate’s Court in connection with the altercation.
"I want to confirm that it is true that I was not there because the presidential cars don't stop for anything. We don't even stop at a red traffic light. It would been very strange if my car stopped there and I was watching what was happening.
"When I became aware of the incident, I was actually home already because you don't see what is happening."
Mashatile refused elaborate when pressed on the issue, saying the matter is before the courts and thus sub judice.
"This matter is now in court. It may be very difficult to engage in it. It is sub judice when people appear in court, and we are busy saying things here, it becomes a problem, but MPs can be assured that I was not there on the scene."
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