Several police officers in Estcourt, KwaZulu-Natal, have been pulled from duty after they were caught on video transporting a learner to a matric dance in a state vehicle.
Provincial Police Commissioner Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi confirmed that the officers were on official duty at the time, but chose to use a police van to escort a colleague’s child to the event. The incident quickly went viral, sparking outrage in the community.
Mkhwanazi ordered an urgent internal investigation and disciplinary action, stressing that state resources must never be used for personal purposes. He also instructed finance and supply chain officials to calculate the cost of the unauthorised trip — including fuel and vehicle wear — so the officers involved could repay the state.
“Communities are often told there are no vehicles available when they call for help. Meanwhile, some officers are using state vans for personal errands,” Mkhwanazi said.
He reminded all members of the police service that professionalism and accountability are non-negotiable, warning that anyone found misusing state property could face criminal charges and possible dismissal.
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