The South African Police Service’s (SAPS’s) use of stun grenades against student protesters outside Parliament on Wednesday, and elsewhere on Thursday, begs the question: Have stun grenades become a weapon of choice for the SAPS? They are likely better than the rubber bullets that risk bruising, blinding and maiming with relative randomness. But this does not mean they are weapons that can be used flagrantly, without strict procedure or oversight, and it’s unclear whether these are in place. By ANDREW FAULL and MARK SHAW.