The SAPS has issued a stern reminder to all officers to strictly adhere to media and social media protocols, warning that non-compliance could lead to disciplinary action.

The reminder comes amid growing use of social media platforms by public servants and renewed focus on maintaining professionalism and protecting sensitive operational information.

In an internal communication circulated to employees, SAPS reiterated the provisions of National Instruction 5 of 2017. It states that officers may not engage with the media or make public statements without prior authorisation from the National Commissioner or the Head of Corporate Communication and Liaison.

The directive applies to all forms of communication, including interviews, public comments and social media activity where officers can be identified as SAPS officials or are seen wearing police uniforms.

According to the SAPS X page, unauthorised communication poses a risk to operational integrity and could compromise investigations and other policing activities.

“Members are therefore instructed to refrain from sharing any information related to SAPS activities, operations or internal matters on any public platform without approval,” the communication stated.

The organisation also cautioned officers against recording or sharing videos on platforms such as TikTok while in uniform if the content could bring the police service into disrepute or negatively affect public confidence.

SAPS emphasised that compliance with the instruction is mandatory and that any deviation would be dealt with through established disciplinary processes.

The communication further noted that the reputation of SAPS and the trust placed in the organisation by the public depend on consistent, accurate, and controlled communication.

“All members have a responsibility to protect and uphold the image and credibility of the service at all times,” the notice concludes.

Police officials have been reminded that speaking to the media, commenting publicly or posting content in uniform without authorisation could result in disciplinary action.

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