No Petrol Money: JMPD Vehicles Are Running On Fumes

The Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD) is facing funding gaps and high fuel prices, leading to restrictions on unnecessary mileage.

On Wednesday, JMPD management issued an urgent notice directing officers to leave vehicles at the station after their shifts instead of taking them home.

The internal memo, authorized by JMPD Chief Patrick Jaca, indicated that the support from local businesses had come to an end.

“JMPD is currently facing significant challenges with fuel supply, which stem from the blocking of departmental fuel cards due to outstanding payments.

The fuel stations that had been providing temporary refuelling help have withdrawn their assistance after reaching their credit limits given to the department,” the directive dated 21 October states.

On Thursday afternoon, JMPD spokesperson Superintendent Xolani Fihla informed The Citizen that management had reversed the decision.

“Please be aware that the earlier directive has been retracted, as indicated in your correspondence, but the fuel situation remains unchanged,” Fihla told The Citizen.

JMPD plays a crucial role in supporting the South African Police Service and other law enforcement agencies responsible for ensuring safety in Johannesburg.

Traffic law enforcement and municipal by-law enforcement in the city are among the main duties of JMPD, necessitating extensive time spent on the road.

To maintain the availability of as many vehicles as possible, the withdrawn directive aimed to conserve fuel and prioritize it for essential operational needs.

Senior management and regional leaders were instructed to keep a detailed record of vehicle usage, with officers prohibited from using their personal funds for refuelling.

“This could hinder the accuracy of fleet utilization reports, the reconciliation of fuel, and financial accountability.

Thus, all refueling must be performed strictly via officially sanctioned departmental arrangements,” read Jaca’s retracted memo.

At a local government election rally for Rise Mzansi this week, the Johannesburg mayoral candidate Lukhona Mnguni stated that JMPD required a “culture shift.”

“JMPD needs appropriate resources, including addressing fundamental issues like having properly functioning radio communications.

There is a necessity for additional personnel, modernized policing through the use of body cameras, dashboard cameras, and integrated technology systems to enhance monitoring of Johannesburg streets,” Mnguni remarked.

He further stated that the municipality required a transparent procurement framework that embraces innovative thinking.

“JMPD must have a sufficient budget to ensure fuel availability, transition parts of its fleet to cleaner energy, and procure alternative transport options to serve the city,” Mnguni concluded.

Source: https://www.citizen.co.za/news/jmpd-vehicles-running-on-fumes-as-petrol-stations-end-lines-of-credit/