Brakpan SAPS warns the public about reporting false cases
Thinking about lying to police? Perjury can land you behind bars.
Brakpan SAPS has issued a strong warning to the public about reporting false cases.
Constable Audrey Buthelezi, Sector 1 manager and communications officer, explained intentionally making a false statement under oath is a criminal offence, as is directly influencing another person to make a false statement under oath.
“Any person found to have lied under oath will be arrested and charged with perjury, and they will be prosecuted in the court of law,” she said.
“People are discouraged from reporting false cases based on personal vendettas, avoiding discipline, which is commonly done by teenagers, and for extortion.
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“This has a negative impact as it diverts valuable state resources that could be used to investigate genuine crimes.
“Truthful and accurate reporting is important for the effective functioning of the SAPS as it will ensure proper direction of state resources.”
Buthelezi reiterated that the SAPS will ensure that anyone who reports a false case is arrested and faces the wrath of the law.
She added that perjury can result in a prison sentence of up to 10 years or a hefty fine, or both.
“Members of the public are urged to report anyone they know or even suspect has reported, or has intentions to report, a false case for their own greedy and selfish reasons,” concluded Buthelezi.
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