In order to portray a professional image in any organisation, employees must wear their uniforms with pride and dignity. The South African Police Service prides itself on the SAPS Code of Ethics and the Code of Conduct hence police officers are constantly reminded of the correct dress code.
Bearing this in mind, on Friday, 15 July 2022 at about 13:20, observant Anti-Gang Unit members were quick to spot a person walking in Kariega in police uniform which was not in accordance with the SAPS dress code. While patrolling in Durban Street, the 30-year-old male was seen wearing a police raincoat without any insignias, police field dress pants that were not properly worn, safety shoes, and a police cap. With the assistance of SAPS Uitenhage members, AGU members then followed the person who after becoming aware of their presence, started running and was arrested inside a shop on Gerald Smith Street. A toy firearm was also confiscated.
When the ‘police officer’ could not provide his appointment certificate, he was detained on a charge of impersonating a police officer.
He is expected to appear in the Kariega magistrate court on Monday, 18 July 2022.
Nelson Mandela Bay District Commissioner, Maj Gen Vuyisile Ncata welcomed the arrest of the impersonator. ‘Many crimes are committed by criminals who imitate and pose as police officials. Such behavior tarnishes the image of the SAPS and results in the community losing credibility and faith in our men and women in blue. An internal investigation will also be conducted to ascertain how the suspect was in possession of the uniform,’ added Maj Gen Ngata.
