SAPS have issued a stern warning that individuals posting information about roadblocks to Facebook could face criminal charges.
SAPS spokesperson Captain Raymond Deokaran has issued a stern warning to individuals posting information on roadblocks to Facebook, citing that – if caught – posters could be charged with defeating the ends of justice.
In a statement, Deokaran explained that “œSocial media can be a valuable asset, but not when it‘s used to undercut the law. We hold roadblocks to try to get dangerous people off the road…“œ
Read: Western Cape Government suggests installing breathalyzers to start vehicles
On the subject of posts advising of roadblocks, Deokaran cited that the effort “does not solve the problem, it lets people know about roadblocks and encourages some potentially-dangerous drivers to get behind the wheel.”
However, the chances of successful charges being laid against such an individual are slim. Justice Project South Africa chairman Howard Dembovsky cites that an individual sharing information would have to be aware that they are committing a crime in order to be successfully prosecuted, though he himself does not advocate sharing information on roadblocks to social media platforms.
Dembovsky offered his view that “œinstead of having hissy fits about people warning others about roadblocks, law enforcement officials should at least try to go out and look for offenders, instead of waiting for them to come to them”, further contributing that such measures would involve “saturating areas where people who have been drinking would be likely to be driving with patrols, pulling those who exhibit the slightest sign of being under the influence of an intoxicating substance over and checking them out.“
Roadblocks form a core part of SAPS operations during the festive season in South Africa as the road death toll climbs to its highest peak around this period.
Read: South African government allocates R2.5 billion for a national broadband network
What are your thoughts? How could SAPS more effectively police busy roads in South Africa? Be sure to let us know your thoughts in the comments below!
Follow Bryan Smith on Twitter: @bryansmithSA
Source: Mybroadband
