What to do when pulled over by Metro police

More recently, a Randburg resident, Lana Stander, laid charges against police officers, claiming to have been assaulted, Randburg Sun reported.

Muldersdrift Police Station spokesperson Warrant Officer Hitler Ngwenya said both Johannesburg Metro Police Department (JMPD) and SAPS have the authority to pull motorists over.

“If an officer strongly suspects that you are carrying something that is illegal, they can pull you over. They do not need a search warrant to do so. First of all, they should introduce themselves to you and explain the situation to you,” said Ngwenya.

A search without a warrant would be permitted only if the officer reasonably suspected the vehicle of being linked to a crime.

What if the officer wants a bribe?

There are a number of hints that an officer looking for a bribe might throw out. If that happens, stand firm and rather ask for a ticket. Never pay for a bribe, no matter how small it is. Report bribe attempts to the nearest police station.

VIDEO: Another metro cop caught asking for bribe

What happens if you have left your licence at home and get pulled over?

A motorist can be issued with a fine for driving without a licence or an alternative charge of failing to carry your driving licence. Motorists are entitled to ask for the arresting officer’s appointment certificate – it looks like a credit card with a picture. If this is not produced, the officer has no right to arrest a motorist.

Justice Project SA national chairperson Howard Dembovsky previously told The Citizen: “It is the absolute and legislated right of any person with a material interest therein to ‘demand’ to see an officer’s certificate of appointment and by law this must be shown to that person upon demand, failing which the officer in question’s actions would be deemed to be illegal”.

Fines motorists can expect:

Your licence disc has expired – R1 000.

You do not have a triangle in your car – R500.

Your taillight is out – R 500.

– Caxton News Service