Assist the police in the right way
The Brakpan police have issued a stern warning to members of the public, as well as organised groups who take the law into their own hands, under the pretence that they are actually assisting the police.
Capt Joep Joubert, spokesperson for the Brakpan SAPS, said that the police receive calls from the community, asking how they can assist the SAPS in combating crime.
He explained that members of the public who would like to assist the police are urged to join the Community Policing Forum (CPF) of Brakpan.
“We want to sent out a strong message and warning to the public not to take the law into their own hands, as it is the duty and responsibility of the South African Police Service,” said Joubert.
“We do appreciate any information we receive form the public and from neighbourhood watch groups.
“However, everything must be done according to the law and in conjunction with the SAPS; nobody is above the law, not even members of the SAPS.
“We have been receiving complaints on a daily basis about groups that are operating in certain areas of Brakpan, searching people and motor vehicles and even assaulting innocent people.
“This is totally unacceptable and we will act against these people.”
Joubert added that carrying a radio and a firearm or any other weapon does not give any person the right to stop and search people or to assault them.
“The Brakpan police will not tolerate such behaviour and any person who has fallen victim to these groups, or witnessed any irregularities, is advised to open a case, after which the matter will be investigated,” he said.
Members of the public who wish to join the CPF can contact Capt Joubert, or Capt Peet van der Schyff, on 011 744-4940.
