Maseru, Nov. 11 — Deputy Commissioner of Police, Dr. Mahlape Morai has instructed and warned police officers against impoundment of vehicles and seizure of motorist documents.
This emerged in a MEMO addressed to District Commissioners of Police (DISPOLS) yesterday evening.
“It has come to the attention of this office that certain practices have emerged within the Traffic Branch that are both improper and in violation of the legal and professional standards of the Lesotho Mounted Police Service (LMPS). Specifically, there have been reports of Impoundment of Non-Exhibit Vehicles, Motor vehicles not directly related to an investigation are being unlawfully impounded as a form of collateral to ensure that suspects report to police. This practice lacks legal basis and constitutes arbitrary seizure of property and is strictly prohibited” it said.
It adds that “Removal of Registration Plates, Police personnel remove vehicle registration plates when a driver is not present or if they believe an offence has been committed, even when the driver is available for arrest. This action is unauthorized and unacceptable.
