Bloemfontein: The South African Police Service (SAPS) in the Free State has issued a warning to the public regarding the unauthorized performance of law enforcement duties. This announcement comes amid reports of individuals or groups intending to join or accompany law enforcement agencies during compliance inspections and enforcement operations throughout the province.

According to South African Government News Agency, the SAPS emphasized that law enforcement activities such as compliance inspections, searches, arrests, and seizures are strictly the domain of authorized law enforcement officials. These officials operate within the framework of the Constitution and relevant legislation. The police have cautioned against civilians taking the law into their own hands, which includes conducting inspections, demanding documentation, or questioning individuals without legal authority. Such actions could result in criminal charges and prosecution.

The SAPS acknowledged the constitutional rights of individuals to assemble, demonstrate, and express their views peacefully, but clarified that these rights do not extend to exercising policing powers or interfering with official law enforcement operations. The SAPS reassured the public of its commitment to fair and impartial law enforcement and highlighted ongoing operations aimed at ensuring public safety and maintaining law and order across the province.

The SAPS urged the public to report any suspected criminal activities through appropriate channels and to allow trained officials to carry out their duties without interference. Lieutenant General Thabang Lesia, the Provincial Commissioner of the Free State, reiterated that anyone found obstructing police officers or impersonating law enforcement will face legal consequences.

The SAPS encouraged Free State residents to work collaboratively with law enforcement by providing information on criminal activities while avoiding actions outside civilian authority.