An internal investigation has been initiated following a video clip that surfaced on social media, showing a police van being impounded by traffic officials in the Free State.
The incident occurred in front of the SAPS provincial head office in Bloemfontein on Monday morning. The video, which has been widely shared, depicts onlookers observing as traffic officers load the vehicle onto an impound truck in a busy city centre.
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WATCH | Free State @SAPoliceService have launched an internal investigation after a police van was captured being impounded by traffic officials
📹: Supplied pic.twitter.com/EDDiQhuv9G— Khanyisile (@Khanyi_Seele) January 22, 2024
Captain Loraine Earl, a police spokesperson, confirmed the incident and stated that the circumstances surrounding the incident would be thoroughly investigated.
The provincial commissioner has already instructed the immediate commander to conduct an internal investigation to delve deeper into the matter.
Members of the SA Police Service are reminded to adhere to all regulations outlined in the Road Traffic Act when driving state vehicles, unless there is an emergency that necessitates otherwise. In such cases, caution must be exercised to ensure the safety of others is not compromised.
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This is the second instance in recent weeks where a police van has been involved in a controversial incident. A video emerged two weeks ago, showing an on-duty KwaZulu-Natal police officer purchasing grain from a civilian and loading it onto a police vehicle. An internal investigation has also been launched into this matter.
The South African Police Service is committed to upholding the law and ensuring that its members act in accordance with the highest standards of professionalism and integrity. The outcomes of these investigations will determine the appropriate actions to be taken in response to these incidents.
