Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD) officers have arrested two suspects following a dramatic stop in Sandton on May 2.

Officers from the JMPD Crime Prevention Unit (Region E) and the Tactical Response Unit (TRU) pulled over a grey Haval motor vehicle fitted with unauthorised blue lights at the intersection of Rivonia Road and Grayston Drive during routine patrols.

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The male driver claimed to be the official driver for the mayor of the Nala municipality and said he was transporting the mayor at the time. The female passenger identified herself as the mayor and provided personal details to support the claim.

Suspicion arose when a vehicle check revealed the Haval was not a state vehicle but registered to a bank. Both occupants were taken to Sandton SAPS for further investigation.

Further probes confirmed the woman was impersonating the mayor. The driver was found to be under the influence of alcohol and in possession of illegal blue light equipment. He is reportedly affiliated with a political party in the Free State.

The driver faces charges of impersonating a police official, driving under the influence (DUI), and unlawful use of blue lights. The female passenger has been charged with impersonation.

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Both suspects were detained at Sandton SAPS and are expected to appear in court soon.

JMPD has welcomed the swift intervention, highlighting ongoing efforts to clamp down on the misuse of emergency equipment and the impersonation of public officials in the area.

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