Lieutenant attacks general

2003-02-24 08:30

Erika Gibson

Pretoria - A young lieutenant, demoted last year because of bad behaviour, put his commanding officer in hospital in what has been described as one of the worst cases of ill discipline in the history of the defence force.

The lieutenant, a former MK member, apparently assaulted Brigadier-General David Masters, commander of the engineering formation outside Pretoria, in his office at night a week ago.

The lieutenant was allegedly under the influence of liquor at the time.

He apparently confronted his commanding officer about a promotion. He was demoted a year ago for threatening a female officer and also has several assault charges pending against him.

When Masters suggested he follow official channels and discuss the issue during office hours, the lieutenant reportedly became aggressive and abusive.

He apparently swore at Masters, threatened him and said he "wasn't afraid of generals".

The lieutenant then reportedly grabbed Masters and pulled him down the stairs ouside the man's office.

He allegedly kicked Masters as he lay on the ground, fracturing his ribs.

The lieutenant ran away, but later laid a charge of assault against Masters.

However, Masters had already told the military police of the attack and they arrested the man.

He was released after a brief appearance before a military court.

- Beeld