The City of Cape Town’s Executive Director of Safety and Security has ordered a full investigation into a viral video involving a law enforcement officer using crude language while addressing a citizen, seemingly during an incident in Ocean View recently.
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The CoCT will be looking into the matter and has vowed that appropriate disciplinary action will follow.
‘The conduct of the officer is unprofessional and unbecoming and has tarnished the good work hundreds of our officers perform on an everyday basis for the residents across our various communities,’ said Mayco member for Safety and Security, JP Smith. ‘We cannot earn the goodwill and support of residents if they are treated in this manner.’
Smith said that such incidents highlighted the need for a body-worn camera program that will eventually see each and every officer equipped with this vital means of technology.
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‘As I have repeatedly stated, not only will this serve as a means of gathering evidence, but it will also ensure the conduct and behaviour of officers remain exemplary and promote a reputation we can be proud of.’
‘At the same time, we must also caution the public to remain aware of fake news and sources of misinformation, as commonly arises before any election period.’
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Smith added that videos are being circulated again of several instances relating to officer misconduct, but upon closer investigation, it can be seen that this often relates to law enforcement or traffic officers outside of Cape Town’s municipality, elsewhere in the country, often of incidents that occurred several years ago already.
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‘We call upon responsible persons to reject those seeking to use misinformation as a means of division during these times, but also encourage residents to report unprofessional behaviour by officers through the correct channels, including the crime tip-off line on 0800 110077.’
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Picture: JP Smith / Facebook