Ipid hotline number launched to report police lawlessness

The Independent Police Investigative Directorate (Ipid) has launched a toll-free number for the public to complain about police lawlessness.

The Ipid hotline was launched by executive director, Jennifer Ntlatseng and police minister General Bheki Cele on Monday.

Cele said this hotline would create an easier platform between the community and Ipid as “some wrongdoing was brought to light by members of the public”.

He said the mission of an effective Ipid was for it to be an independent and impartial oversight structure that was committed to justice and acted in the public’s interest.

“It is on this score that the Ipid is mandated to conduct independent and impartial investigations of criminal offences allegedly committed by members of the SAPS and the municipal police.

“While I am confident that a majority of the men and women in blue are good, hardworking, dedicated and honest officers, unfortunately some of our own do disgrace us. Their actions bring the service into disrepute,” Cele said.

Cele said now communities could continue to blow the whistle on sub-standard services they at times receive at police stations.

“These officers of the law, who choose to go against the very oaths they took to protect and to serve, don’t have a place in the SAPS.”

He said Ipid had in the past and is presently taking down criminals masquerading as police, which included the arrest of officers implicated in alleged corruption, and those violating their constitutional mandate.

He said in many cases, the police directorate was also able to step in when the conduct of the police, during operations, was in question.

“Whatever the case, Ipid is required to exercise its powers fairly, impartially and without fear, favour or bias.”

Cele said this hotline was a first for the police oversight body.

Cele said it was with great pleasure to see that the Ipid refine and improve its work under the new management.

“Three months ago when the new executive director came into office, I expressed my confidence in Ntlatseng to steer the ship in the right direction and bring much-needed stability to this organisation.

“I believe the launch of this IPID hotline number brings the IPID one step closer in better positioning itself as an effective and impartial oversight body of the police.”

Cele said the number for the toll-free hotline is 0800-111-696.

“Through this number, citizens will have direct access to a directorate that ensures accountability in the police service.”

He urged all South Africans to use this number wisely and responsibly.

The IPID hotline can be used to report the following:

• Officers sleeping on duty.
• Officers who turn away victims of gender-based violence and domestic violence at police stations.
• Officers who abuse state resources and state vehicles.
• Officers who harass and intimidate citizens.
• Officers who aid in the sale of drugs and protect drug dealers.
• All forms of corruption by officers.

Cele said the quality of IPID’s investigations was crucial in ensuring police accountability for any wrongdoing.

“It is equally as important for complainants to receive consistent quality service from the directorate,” he said.

Fore more information, visit the official Ipid website by clicking here.