What to do when you are stopped by traffic police
Find out how to protect yourself when stopped by police.
A video went viral this week showing a traffic officer aggressively confronting a motorist near an accident scene on the N4 Bakwena/N1 South interchange.
Motorist David du Toit said he was sitting in traffic when the officer approached his car and started shouting “’You are not following instructions!’ before slamming his hands on the bonnet of the car.
Later in the video the traffic officer pushed Du Toit during a heated argument.
André Snyman of eBlockwatch said it is clear in the video that the traffic officer was already under stress when Du Toit arrived.
“When someone is already under stress and a camera is pointed at them it can make them aggressive,” said Snyman.
The best is to join eBlockwatch ‘Police On Record’ and phone the number provided whenever you are pulled over by police. A message will then play telling the officer that you will be recording the conversation and that it is monitored by police, eBlockwatch and the media. If the policeman or woman is genuine and simply doing their job, they should have no problem with you recording the conversation.”
Snyman however urged motorists to treat police officers with the utmost respect.
“When an officer is being aggressive and you are calm and speak respectfully, they might become as well. They will most likely mirror your reaction. Respect and cooperation is key.”
Gauteng traffic spokesperson Busaphi Nxumalo is yet to comment on the incident.
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