Roadblock advice for women
According to the KwaZulu-Natal traffic department, there are several things to note when a woman has to be searched or arrested
IT is important that women be made aware of their rights when male officers approach them on the roads.
The threat of a violation by an officer of the law can clearly be seen in the Independent Police Investigative Directorate’s (IPID) 2017/18 annual report, which recorded 105 incidents of sexual assault by a police officer and nine incidents of sexual assault by an officer on people in police custody.
IPID derives its mandate from Section 206 (6) of the Constitution, which is that of ensuring effective independent oversight of the SA Police Service (SAPS) and Municipal Police Services (MPS).
According to the KwaZulu-Natal traffic department, there are several things to note when a woman has to be searched or arrested:
The absence of a female officer of the law does not mean you may be let go from the scene.
A female officer must instead be called to the site.
The male officer must ask for assistance from any other female officer that is around the area to assist in the body search.
If safety is compromised, the female motorist can remain in the vehicle until a female officer arrives.
If you feel that your rights have been violated, take down the officer’s name from the verification card all traffic officials carry, as well as the official’s vehicle registration number, and report your case at a police station.
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