KwaZulu-Natal violence monitor Mary de Haas has blamed poor police management for the rising cases of criminals impersonating officers in the province.
Authorities have expressed concern over the trend, which has been linked to an increase in home robberies, particularly in KwaMashu. Police reports indicate that suspects often wear partial police uniforms—such as bulletproof vests, caps, masks, or raincoats—to gain entry into homes. Once inside, they threaten occupants at gunpoint while looting valuables before fleeing.
In a recent incident, a 36-year-old woman in J-Section was robbed of cash and cellphones by criminals disguised as police officers.
De Haas stressed the need for stricter management and accountability within the South African Police Service (SAPS) to prevent such impersonations.
"There has been abuse of blue lights and police uniforms over the years. Authorities need to maintain better inventory control, ensuring that uniforms are accounted for, especially when officers resign," she said.
Police have urged residents to be vigilant and verify officers’ identities when approached in their homes.