According
to
an
internal
memo
issued
to
all
police
units,
officers
were
immediately
ordered
to
cease
involvement
in
the
transport
sector,
either
directly
or
through
proxies.
The
directive
follows
public
complaints
and
a
formal
investigation
that
confirmed
serious
breaches
of
conduct
by
officers
involved
in
the
minibus
taxi
and
commuter
omnibus
trade.
The
kombis
were
allegedly
not
being
stopped
at
police
roadblocks
or
targeted
during
enforcement
operations,
raising
questions
about
abuse
of
authority
and
unfair
competition.
“The
inquiry
was
instituted
after
a
public
outcry
where
there
were
allegations
of
gross
misconduct
against
the
service,”
the
memo
states.
“Unfortunately,
the
inquiry
also
confirmed
gross
misconduct
within
the
rank
and
file
of
the
organisation.”
The
investigation,
launched
under
the
Police
Trials
and
Boards
of
Inquiry
Regulations
of
1965
and
the
Police
Act
[Chapter
11:10],
found
that
some
officers
were
running
transport
businesses
in
violation
of
standing
regulations
that
prohibit
members
of
the
force
from
conducting
private
business
without
the
express
permission
of
the
Commissioner-General.
“It
is
an
offence
to
conduct
such
business
without
approval,”
the
memo
warned.
“All
officers/members
are
directed
to
stop
any
involvement
in
the
passenger
transportation
business
in
whatever
manner.”
The
directive
also
states
that
any
officer
found
defying
the
ban
will
be
charged
in
terms
of
the
Police
Act,
and
a
Board
of
Inquiry
(Suitability)
will
be
convened
to
determine
further
disciplinary
measures.
Police
intelligence
units
have
been
instructed
to
monitor
compliance
and
submit
the
names
of
those
still
involved
in
transport
operations.
“Police
intelligence
is
implored
to
identify
such
culprits
and
forward
their
particulars
to
their
respective
Officers
Commanding
Provinces
for
action
to
be
taken,”
the
memo
says.
The
ZRP
stressed
the
need
to
restore
public
confidence
and
safeguard
the
integrity
of
the
police
force.
“We
have
a
duty
to
protect
the
good
image
of
the
service,”
the
statement
adds.
“Any
such
measures
will
be
taken
from
time
to
time
as
we
strive
to
maintain
a
cordial
working
relationship
with
the
generality
of
our
people.”
Provincial
commanders
were
given
until
midday
on
5
July
to
confirm
receipt
of
the
directive.