The South African Police Service (SAPS) has noted with concern the increase in the number of robberies reportedly committed by people wearing police uniform and/or using vehicles fitted with blue lights. This trend has resurfaced in Gauteng province over the past couple of months.
In some instances, business people travelling with cash are being robbed while on their way to or from the bank. In other instances, people are being followed and then robbed while travelling from the airport to their respective destinations.
In our investigations, we have managed to establish that there are various groups which collude with hotel staff, meter taxi drivers and - in certain instances - with the police. The role of police officers is found to be either direct physical involvement or the supply of items such as uniform, blue lights or firearms.
"These robberies, the modus operandi in particular, is of huge concern for me and I have set up a multi-disciplinary team comprising of members from detectives, visible (uniform) policing and crime intelligence, as well as a retired detective, under the leadership of Divisional Commissioner: Detectives, Lieutenant-General Vineshkumar Moonoo. Thus far, there are about 250 dockets which are being followed up," said SAPS National Commissioner General Riah Phiyega.
Over the past couple of weeks, detectives have been interacting with victims and further analysing the cases to get a better understanding of the modus operandi as well as the people possibly involved. Indications so far are that these crimes are opportunistic in nature.
The majority of these incidents happen at night in poorly lit areas. Members of the public who find themselves stopped by a private vehicle fitted with blue lights in such areas are advised to slow down, continue driving to a well-lit area or to the nearest police station.
Another element of this matter which is being addressed is the utilization of blue lights. The use of blue lights is managed under the National Road Traffic Act, 1996 (Act No. 93 of 1996). Our police officers have the power to stop and search any motorist they suspect may have committed or are in the process of committing a crime.
Also should motorists be found in possession of any law enforcement paraphernalia they can, in addition to them being charged in terms of the other governing laws, like the National Road Traffic Act, they may be charged with impersonating a police officer.
We are currently in the process of amending the South African Police Service Act to include new regulations in the SAPS Act to guide the possession and utilization of blue lights going forward.
Media enquiries:
Lieutenant General SM Makgale
Head: Corporate Communication
Cell: 082 778 3718
