Montclair police crack down on illegal safety structures
The Montclair police station has issued a warning against illegal safety structures that have not been approved by the police.
THE Montclair police station has issued a strong warning against the operation of illegal community safety organisations in its policing area.
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Station commander Lieutenant Colonel Velu Moodley said that the SAPS alone is constitutionally established to provide safety and security.
“In terms of section 205(3) of the constitution of the Republic of South Africa, 1996, the objects of the police service are to prevent, combat and investigate crime, to maintain public order, to protect and secure the inhabitants of the republic and their property, and to uphold and enforce the law. Consequently, no other grouping, association or structure may assume these policing functions without the consent and oversight of SAPS,” said Moodley.
He said that Community Police Forums (CPFs) are the only lawful forums for community policing, as regulated by the South African Police Service Act 68 of 1995.
“Paragraph 7.3.4 of the aforementioned policy requires that all community patrollers and neighbourhood watches must be registered with the CPF to ensure compliance with the law and the code of conduct. The word ‘must’ makes this requirement peremptory and not optional,” he said.
Moodley warned that any organisation or entity that conducted activities outside of these legal prescripts would not be recognised by SAPS and would be unlawful. He added that misuse of white lights, SAPS-like markings, CPF decals, insignia, uniforms or SAPS markings are a form of impersonation and could result in criminal prosecution.
Despite the warning, Moodley encouraged lawful partnership, saying the Montclair police, together with the CPF, welcome legitimate community formations that assist in fighting crime, provided they are registered, vetted and accountable within SAPS.
The public is urged to report any structure that is not in accordance with this directive. You can contact the Montclair police on 031 462 6219.
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