KNOW YOUR RIGHTS IN RESPECT OF SAPS DURING THE LOCKDOWN:
During this period, while we all work towards curbing the spread of COVID-19, our government has instituted extraordinary measures in terms of the Disaster Management Act. In terms of section 27 of the Act, a national disaster has been declared, and regulations have been issued that specify, among other things, what special measures are being put in place because of the national disaster.
In terms of the regulations issued in March 2020 a ‘lockdown’ was instituted. This has had the effect of restricting the movement of persons within the Republic. This has also meant that the South African Police Service (SAPS) and a number of members of the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) have been given the responsibility of ensuring that the restrictions implemented in terms of the regulations are adhered to by members of the public.
While it is important to adhere to the regulations during this time, and not doing so is an offence, it is also of great importance that people’s rights to be treated with respect and dignity are maintained by SAPS and the SANDF. Should this not be the case, you have a right to recourse, which starts with a complaint.
Irrespective of the regulations, and the extraordinary circumstances created by the COVID-19 pandemic, SAPS always has an obligation to uphold and respect your rights; Any and all abuses by SAPS officials must be reported so that the relevant officials can be held accountable; and Neither the regulations, the lockdown or COVID-19 give SAPS the right to infringe on your rights.
For a step-by-step guide for submitting a report, click on the link below: