Sanef Deeply Disturbed by the Assault on Pretoria Journalist, Frans Sello Machate

02 November 2018

The South African National Editors’ Forum (SANEF) is deeply disturbed by the assault of Pretoria-based journalist, Frans Sello Machate, by members of the South African Police Service (SAPS) and the Tshwane Metro Police Department (TMPD).

SANEF wishes to reiterate that the police are not a law unto themselves – they must respect the rights of all citizens. It is particularly problematic that the assault and harassment of Machate was conducted in front of his family, mostly his young children.

The assault of journalists must at all times be condemned. We call on the police departments of both the SAPS and TMPD to take a closer look at this matter and take appropriate action against all the officers who were involved.

South Africans, the media included, should not allow our country to be turned into a state that turns a blind eye to brutality – the police are meant to protect citizens and enforce the law. They cannot see themselves as above the law.

We welcome and support the fact that Machate has opened a case with the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (Ipid). We also note that TMPD spokesman, Senior Superintendent Isaac Mahamba stated that this matter will be investigated.

SANEF calls on Ipid to fast track its investigation into this matter and to bring to book all those officers who were involved.

For more information:

Reggy Moalusi, SANEF Gauteng convener on 071 682 3695

Kate Skinner, Sanef Executive Director on 082 926 6404