SAPS step up measures to deal with complaints
When members of the public report a complaint, the respective complaint will be required to contain detailed information such as full names and surname, identity number, residential / business address, telephone and cell-phone numbers and an email address
The South African Police Service (SAPS) has announced that complaints / allegations of police brutality or cruel / inhumane treatment meted out to the public can be directed through to the SAPS’ National Service Complaints Centre.
The public may, for the duration of the State of Disaster, report complaints regarding the SAPS at their nearest police station, the National Service Complaints Centre on 0800-333-177 toll-free, or the following email addresses: complaintsnodalpoint@saps.gov.za or service@saps.gov.za
This was confirmed by SAPS spokesperson Colonel Thembeka Mbele.
“Complaints can vary from torture and / or cruel, inhumane and / or degrading treatment and / or punishment committed by law enforcement members to poor service delivery regarding police response, investigations, police negligence and police misconduct.
When members of the public report a complaint, the respective complaint will be required to contain detailed information such as full names and surname, identity number, residential / business address, telephone and cell-phone numbers and an email address.
“Complainants will also be required to give a detailed description of what occurred during the incident, including the province / area in which the complaint originated, as well as the date and time of the incident and details of the SAPS officials involved.”
She added that, “It is expected of law enforcement officers to support the aim of the State of Disaster by providing a service, rendering assistance, giving advice, guiding and leading the community in order to ensure that lives are saved.
“This is being achieved by ensuring that there is enforcement with regards to inter-provincial / district travel through roadblocks and vehicle check points, checking and verification of permits issued under the regulations, ensuring closure of borders and monitoring movement of cargo, issuing of fines and arresting of offenders for non-compliance, compliance checks during routine patrols and high visibility patrols, and visits to identified areas.
‘These enforcement activities also ensure that the restriction of people’s movement, as the main component of efforts to confine and manage the spread of Covid-19, is achieved.
“Law enforcement officers are further expected to encourage and sensitise members of the public to adhere to social distancing.
“Even though ignoring social distancing is currently not an offence and cannot therefore be enforced, law enforcement agencies must ensure that high visibility is maintained around malls, shopping centres and other areas.”
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