The matter against Deputy President Paul Mashatile's VIP protection team has once again been postponed. The eight appeared at the Randburg Magistrates Court on Wednesday and are accused of assaulting a motorist, an incident which happened in July.

The suspects, who are SAPS members attached to the Deputy President's security detail, were caught on video assaulting men, who were later discovered to be members of SANDF, on the N1 Highway. After the incident caught media attention and drew public interest the accused handed themselves over at Sandton SAPS but were later released on a bail of R10 000 each.

The accused, Shadrack Kojana, Johannes Mampuru, Pomso Mofokeng, Madumetja Ramokhonami, Molefo Boshielo, Mpakameseni Mkhize, Lesibana Rambau, and Fhatuwani Tshidada, are faced with charges including malicious damage to property, pointing of a firearm, reckless driving and attempting to defeat the administration of justice.

State Prosecutor Advocate Elize LeRoux told the court that "two cellphone recordings, a few statements and an identity parade need to be conducted to complete the investigation. There are still outstanding documents to support the case." The court also heard that all the eight accused will now be represented by one defence as opposed to previous times. National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) Phindi Mjonondwana said the state has reconsidered its position on the issue of identity and an identity parade will be conducted on October 18. "Ours is to present all relevant evidence before the court and the court will make a determination in terms of the strength of the case," Mjonondwana said. The magistrate presiding over the matter Hleziphi Mkhasibe, said the matter was postponed to November 9 for further investigation.