In a renewed directive that’s sure to stir conversation, the South African Police Service (SAPS) has warned its officers to steer clear of wearing buffs as part of their standard uniform. The statement, released this week, emphasizes that buffs—typically used to cover the face or neck—are strictly prohibited for general police personnel due to concerns around the concealment of identity and the need for visible accountability in line with SAPS’s official code of conduct.
The ban comes amid growing concerns about public trust and transparency in policing. SAPS made it clear that only specific elite units—namely the Special Task Force (STF), National Intervention Unit (NIU), and Tactical Response Team (TRT)—are permitted to use buffs, and even then, only during approved tactical operations. This selective use is rooted in operational security rather than personal preference.
Adding further weight to the warning, SAPS declared that any use of the official SAPS emblem on buffs is strictly forbidden. Unauthorized display of the insignia not only violates uniform regulations but also risks undermining the integrity of the police brand. Officers found breaching this directive could face disciplinary action.
This move by SAPS aims to maintain professional appearance standards and ensure clear identification of police personnel in public-facing roles. As the service continues to reinforce accountability, this seemingly small uniform detail sends a strong message: the public must always know who is behind the badge.
