Bullet-proof vests shortage leaves EMPD officers at risk
The DA says it was approached by several officers asking for help as they feared for their lives while attending crime scenes without adequate armour.
Shadow MMC for Community Safety in Ekurhuleni, Clr Jaco Terblanche, says some EMPD law enforcement officers lack bulletproof vests.
Terblanche says he was recently approached by numerous EMPD officers, raising their concerns over the lack of availability of body armour.
He then wrote to the MMC for Community Safety in Ekurhuleni, Clr Frans Mmoko, to inquire about the alleged shortage.
“Following my written questions to the MMC, I am concerned that the City of Ekurhuleni (CoE) does not have adequate bulletproof vests in stock for our EMPD officer.
“According to the MMC, 1009 bulletproof vests were issued to operational members of the EMPD and that the new intake of 263 members still need to be issued with body armour.
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“Interestingly, there is currently no tender in place to acquire additional body armour. New armour will only be procured in the 2020/2021 financial year, if the tender is awarded,” said Terblanche.
Terblanche stated that the CoE needs to urgently act to empower and protect the EMPD and law enforcement personnel so that they can protect residents.
“While the MMC admitted that there is also no end of lifespan for bulletproof vests, they do need to be inspected at least every five years for mould. Should mould be found on the plates in the armour, then they need to be replaced.
“Worryingly, the department does not have any bulletproof vests in stock and will only be issued to personnel as and when they are delivered. This means that the officers tasked with serving and protecting the communities do not have the necessary equipment to effectively perform their duties.”
Terblanche pointed out that citizens need an EMPD force that are adequately equipped to protect themselves and residents.
“The DA will continue to fight for residents rights for a safer city and fight to ensure that they are protected by a professional, well-equipped EMPD,” said Terblanche.
The Advertiser is still awaiting comment from the office of the MMC for Community Safety in Ekurhuleni.
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