By Mapaballo Borotho
- A SAPS officer is facing disciplinary action after a video of him dancing and singing in full police uniform circulated on social media.
- Mpumalanga police say recording such content while in uniform contravenes SAPS policies and its Code of Conduct.
- Authorities have reiterated that officers are expected to maintain professionalism and discipline at all times while representing the Service.
Living in the age of social media has made life more enjoyable and convenient for many people.
While social media platforms are widely used for learning, education, information-sharing, and entertainment, they can also have serious consequences affecting not only people’s personal lives but their professional lives as well.
Recently, we’ve seen employees from various workplaces giving social media users a glimpse into their daily routines at work.
Some share the fun they have with colleagues, while others post videos of themselves dancing, singing, or creating content while on duty.
However, for some workplaces, this kind of content could land employees in trouble, as dancing or singing while wearing a work uniform can potentially bring a company’s name into disrepute, particularly if the organisation is not in the entertainment industry.
This is especially true for businesses and institutions that provide essential services to the public.
A recent example involves a member of the South African Police Service (SAPS), who has found himself in hot water after a video of him dancing and singing while dressed in full police uniform began circulating on social media.
According to Mpumalanga police spokesperson Mavela Masondo, such behaviour is a contravention of SAPS policies and its Code of Conduct.
“Members are prohibited from recording videos or content in uniform as that brings the Service into disrepute.
Police officers are expected to maintain discipline and professionalism at all times when wearing the uniform,” he said.
Masondo added that the officer has since been identified and that departmental steps will be taken against him.
“The SAPS will not hesitate to take decisive action against any member whose conduct tarnishes the image of the organisation,” he said.
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