The SAPS says circulating the video which shows a policeman accidentally shooting a colleague in the head from behind while tackling armed robbers was "insensitive".
"The insensitivity of the media in circulating a traumatic video of this nature is conspired sensational journalism and unfortunate," acting police national commissioner Lieutenant-General Khomotso Phahlane said on Tuesday.
Phahlane said the SAPS was aware of a "disturbing" video circulating online depicting the fatal shooting of a police officer during an armed robbery and was investigating the incident.
Constable Tshepo Tladi, 35, died in hospital after being shot in the head from behind by a colleague during an armed robbery in Twala Section, Katlehong North, Johannesburg on Thursday last week.
"That the late officer’s family has been subjected to the trauma of witnessing his death through viral video footage is regrettable and we extend our deepest condolences to them. We will ensure that justice prevails," said Phahlane.
The acting police national commissioner said he has sanctioned both misconduct and criminal investigations, in collaboration with the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (Ipid).
"The investigations will focus on the police officers who were on the scene to ensure that those responsible for the fatal shooting of the late Constable Tladi are dealt with accordingly," said Phahlane.
He said an internal investigation was under way and that disciplinary action will be taken against any officers found to have committed an offence or contravened SAPS regulations. Phahlane said should there be evidence to prove that police officers tampered with the scene or that there was any type of a cover-up, there will certainly be judicial consequences.