Charles Esther
The South African Police Service (SAPS) has reminded its members that they are not allowed to wear buffs while on duty.
The reason is that buffs conceal identity and violate the police code of conduct.
Limited Use for Specialised Units Only
According to SAPS rules, only members of the Special Task Force (STF), National Intervention Unit (NIU), and Tactical Response Team (TRT) may wear buffs — and only during authorised and approved operations.
In addition, no buff may display the official police emblem under any circumstances.
Preventing Criminal Impersonation
SAPS has warned that criminals often disguise themselves as police officers by wearing buffs to cover their faces.
If such concealment became common among legitimate officers, it would be harder for the public to distinguish real police from impostors.
Maintaining Officer Identifiability
To prevent confusion, SAPS requires all officers to be clearly identifiable at all times.
This includes the mandatory display of name tags while on duty.
David Awoyode