Earlier in 2015, a couple were almost hijacked outside a school in Pretoria by two men dressed as police officers.
Despite dramatic cellphone footage of the incident doing the rounds online, the criminals have yet to be identified. An abandoned vehicle was later found in Tembisa, containing police vests and jackets, a blue light and two R5 rifles that were used in the attempt.
Unfortunately stories like these can build mistrust and suspicion amongst citizens, particularly drivers.
According to Elmarie Twilley, spokesperson for Afrikaans insurance company, Virseker “It’s important to remember that although we are held to the laws of South Africa, especially on the road, we are also entitled to certain citizen’s rights. It’s these rights that prevent the police from unlawfully detaining you or searching your property, and, as in the case in Pretoria, can also help to protect you from criminal imposters posing as the police.”
Twilley urged South Africans to also be vigilant about ascertaining the identity of police officials.
“Before getting out of your vehicle, or allowing a police officer into your home, ask them to identify themselves by presenting their appointment card. Every police official must carry an appointment card at all times, including plain clothes detectives.”
An official SAPS appointment card includes the officer’s picture, name, rank, force and station. If the police official refuses to identify him or herself by showing their appointment card, you can then request to speak or be approached by the official’s supervisor or commander.
She added that citizens also needed to move past the misconception of the ‘badge’ as an official form of identity, “The SAPS strictly uses these appointment cards, so don’t be lulled into complacency by the flash of a badge. These can also be easily faked.”
Virseker provided a few tips to keep in mind if you are pulled over on the road:
• There is unfortunately no easy way to tell a cloned police car from the real thing, so err on the side of caution and don’t risk pulling over in a dark or isolated place.
• If a police vehicle indicates for you to pull over in a quiet or unsafe place, rather put on your emergency lights and drive slowly (40km/h) to the nearest police station.
• Ensure that you have your driver’s license on you whenever you are behind the wheel.
• Be calm and avoid aggressive behaviour.
• If stopped by a police officer, notify a friend or family member, and read them the registration number on the Metro Police car.
• Try recording the conversation you have with the police officer on your cellphone.
• A male police officer is not allowed to search a woman, but he can ask you to empty your pockets and bag.
• The SAPS are empowered to search your car without a warrant if they have reasonable suspicion, but you can ask them what cause for their suspicion is before giving consent.
• Ask your insurance company if they offer emergency roadside assistance, so you’re never left on your own on the side of the road.
