Blue lights abuse: RTMC urges caution

Motorists cannot immediately determine whether a vehicle fitted with blue lights and sirens is operating legally, despite growing concerns over misuse.

- Koketšo Sekhwela

This is according to Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) spokesperson Simon Zwane, who said only authorised law enforcement officers are permitted to stop and question motorists using blue lights.

Zwane warned that failing to make way for a vehicle displaying blue lights, even amid uncertainty, could trigger conflict or road rage incidents. "Only clear emergency medical services or trained security officers carrying out official duties may use blue lights, such as police, traffic or national defence officers," he said, noting that the equipment is primarily intended for VIP protection and emergency response.

His comments follow recent national investigations, including the Madlanga Commission, which exposed widespread abuse of blue lights linked to private security firms and unauthorised individuals. He stressed that private security, towing services and prominent individuals are not entitled to use blue lights. Offenders may face charges of impersonating a law enforcement officer, carrying possible jail terms of six months to five years.