A Spar employee in Bothaville, Free State, alleges he was assaulted by a security manager last weekend after refusing a breathalyzer test. Tommy Morapedi, a general employee at the store, claims he was pepper-sprayed “until the bottle was empty” and forcibly thrown against store shelves.
Incident Details
The alleged assault occurred around 2pm as Morapedi was preparing to end his shift. He questioned why the breathalyzer test wasn’t administered earlier in the day, leading to an argument with the security manager. Morapedi, who has worked at the store for five years, maintains he was sober and did not require the test.
Both Morapedi and the security manager sustained injuries and received medical attention. Morapedi has been booked off work by a doctor and reports ongoing pain and stitches from the incident.
Company and Police Response
The Spar Group, through national PR, communications and sponsorship manager Mpudi Maubane, stated that the Bothaville store is independently owned and operated. Maubane confirmed the retailer is aware of the incident and has taken steps to address it, including suspending the security manager pending a full investigation.
Free State police confirmed they are investigating a case of common assault. Police spokesperson Sgt Palesa Thabana stated that no arrests have been made at this time, and witness statements are being collected. The case docket will be submitted to court for a decision.
The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) visited the supermarket on Wednesday, demanding the manager’s suspension and an apology from Spar to the community.
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted the initial request for a breathalyzer test?
The source does not state what prompted the request for a breathalyzer test.
What is the status of the security manager’s employment?
The security manager has been suspended pending a full investigation, according to Mpudi Maubane, national PR, communications and sponsorship manager at the Spar Group.
Has a formal apology been issued by Spar?
The EFF demanded an apology from Spar, but the source does not indicate whether an apology has been issued.
What further steps will be taken in this case, and how will the investigation unfold?
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