Members of the public are advised to contact the Military Ombudsman to report cases of brutality and violence perpetrated by members of the South African National Defence Force (SANDF).
From the first few days of South Africa’s national coronavirus lockdown, allegations of unnecessary brutality and violence by defence force soldiers have appeared on social media and in news coverage. Videos and photos have been shared, apparently showing military personnel punishing those found outside, and on some occasions even in their own yards, for breaking the rules of the lockdown. As a means to assist victims of such actions, the South African Military Ombudsman has called on the public to lodge complaints against the SANDF.
The Military Ombud was founded in 2012 to investigate and ensure that complaints against the SANDF are resolved in a fair, economical and expeditious manner. Members of the public, along with members, former members and family of SANDF members are invited to contact the office. The Military Ombud does not represent the complainant or the Department of Defence but is an independent arbiter between the parties.
To lodge a complaint, a complaint form may be downloaded from its website. You will be expected to explain how you were violated and how you would like the matter to be resolved. The document should include your full name, ID number, contact details and address. A case reference number will be given once the Ombud has confirmed receipt of the complaint. If the Ombud has jurisdiction, an investigator will be assigned and will interview all parties involved.
Chairman of the Portfolio Committee on Police, Tina Joemat-Pettersson, called for a meeting with the SAPS and the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID). The prime focus of the meeting was to discuss and assess the management and heavy-handedness of security forces during the lockdown. She said that the continued reports of alleged abuse of power and heavy-handedness by law enforcement officers were a concern for the committee.
The Ombud’s physical office is closed due to lockdown, but can be contacted as follows:
Email – intake@milombud.org
WhatsApp – 012 676 3800
Website – https://www.milombud.org
Facebook – South African Military Ombud
Twitter – @Mil_OmbudSA
LinkedIn – South African Military Ombud
Instagram – South African Military Ombud
