The South African Police Service (SAPS) in the Free State has warned the public against performing law enforcement functions.
This as it noted circulating information suggesting that certain individuals or groups may intend to participate in, or accompany law enforcement agencies during compliance inspections and enforcement operations across the province.
“The SAPS wishes to remind the public that the enforcement of the law, including compliance inspections, searches, arrests, seizures and other policing functions, is the exclusive responsibility of duly authorised law enforcement officials acting within the confines of the Constitution and applicable legislation,” the police said in a statement on Saturday.
The police cautioned the public against taking the law into their own hands, conducting inspections, demanding documentation, questioning individuals, or participating in law enforcement activities without the necessary legal authority. Such actions, it said, may constitute criminal offences and could expose those involved to criminal prosecution.
“The SAPS respects the constitutional rights of all persons to assemble, demonstrate and express their views peacefully and within the confines of the law. However, these rights do not extend to exercising policing powers or interfering with official law enforcement operations.
“The SAPS remains committed to enforcing the law fairly, impartially and without fear, favour or prejudice. Operational deployments across the province continue to ensure public safety, maintain law and order, and address all forms of criminality.”
The SAPS encouraged members of the public to report suspected criminal activities to the SAPS through the appropriate channels and to allow trained and authorised law enforcement officials to perform their duties without interference.
The Provincial Commissioner of the Free State, Lieutenant General Thabang Lesia, has reiterated that any person found obstructing police officials, impersonating law enforcement officers, or unlawfully performing policing functions will be dealt with decisively in accordance with the law.
The SAPS calls on all residents of the Free State to continue working in partnership with law enforcement by providing information on criminal activities while refraining from actions that fall outside the scope of civilian authority. – SAnews.gov.za
