The South African Police Service (SAPS) in KwaZulu-Natal has suspended yet another officer pending a misconduct investigation, allegedly for being seen wearing political party regalia and actively participating in political events.

A police constable stationed at Ntambanana Police Station has been withdrawn from operational duties after allegedly being seen wearing regalia of a political party and actively participating in political events.

KZN police spokesperson Colonel Robert Netshiunda said the officer’s actions contravene Section 46 of the South African Police Service Act, Act No. 68 of 1995. 

Netshiunda said the legislation prohibits police members from publicly expressing support for, or associating themselves with, any political party. 

This includes holding office in a political organisation or wearing any political insignia.

“In response to the incident, the Provincial Commissioner of KwaZulu-Natal, Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, has instructed the District Commissioner of King Cetshwayo to immediately withdraw the officer pending an investigation into his alleged involvement in politics,” said Netshiunda.

“Police officers are expected to remain apolitical and neutral at all times. Any association with a political party has the potential to bring the name of the organisation into disrepute,” he added.

Netshiunda said Mkhwanazi has also requested the Private Security Industry Regulatory Authority (PSIRA) to investigate claims that the same constable owns a security company providing VIP protection and other services, an activity prohibited for police officers.

“No police officer is allowed to be involved in the security, alcohol or taxi industries,” Netshiunda said. 

“Community members are urged to report all police officers who involve themselves in politics or illicit businesses that compromise the integrity of the South African Police Service.”

This latest development follows closely on the heels of another internal disciplinary process, after officers from the Estcourt area were found to have used a police vehicle to transport a learner to a matric dance.

IOL News previously reported that, according to the police, the officers involved were on duty at the time. 

Their actions, widely circulated on social media, allegedly compromised service delivery by misusing state resources.

“These members failed in their duties to ensure police visibility, respond to complaints, and maintain public safety,” Netshiunda previously said.

Mkhwanazi has ordered their immediate removal from operations and disciplinary proceedings to be initiated by the Uthukela District Commissioner.

“We cannot afford to have officers reporting for duty only to use state resources for personal benefit,” said Mkhwanazi.

“I have also instructed our finance and supply chain management units to determine any financial losses suffered by the state due to this unauthorised use.”

Mkhwanazi said the involved officers could be held liable for the cost of state fuel, time, and vehicle wear incurred.

“Communities often complain about a lack of police vehicles when calling for assistance – meanwhile, officers are misusing vans meant to serve the public,” he said.

He called on all SAPS members to uphold professionalism and protect the image of the organisation.

“State resources should only be used for authorised duties. Any member found misusing state vehicles, stationery, or any other property will face disciplinary action and potential criminal charges – which could ultimately lead to dismissal,” Mkhwanazi said.

simon.majqdibodu@iol.co.za

IOL News

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