South Africa's police force utilizes a diverse fleet of vehicles, ranging from high-performance hatchbacks to rugged off-roaders, tailored to meet the demands of law enforcement across the country. Unlike some countries with exotic police cars, South Africa focuses on practicality and affordability while ensuring officers have the tools they need to effectively carry out their duties.
Volkswagen Golf GTI Police Car
Modern Police Vehicles in South Africa
Volkswagen Golf GTI
The Durban Metro Police Service (DMPS) has recently adopted a significant number of brand-new hot hatches, specifically the Volkswagen Golf GTI. These GTIs are based on the pre-facelift version, identifiable by their headlights. Operating in Durban, the country's third-most populous city, DMPS plans to implement advanced driver training courses to ensure officers can safely and effectively handle these high-performance vehicles.
"Equipping officers with the skills to handle high-performance vehicles responsibly is crucial not only for their safety but also for maintaining respect on the roads. As part of the plans for the new police college, we’re looking to introduce advanced driver training to address exactly this concern. We hear your concern about misuse, and with the right training and oversight, we’re working to prevent any potential misuse of these vehicles."
The ZA-spec Golf GTI is automatic-only, a feature that will continue with the facelifted model. The Golf GTI was chosen for its practicality, relative affordability, and performance capabilities, making it suitable for catching speedsters or transporting suspects.
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Back in February, the Directorate for Priority Crimes Investigations Unit (Hawks) also took delivery of 22 hot hatches.
South Africa Police Car
Historical Vehicles of the British South Africa Police (BSAP)
The British South Africa Police (BSAP) utilized a variety of vehicles, each suited to specific tasks and terrains. These vehicles played a crucial role in maintaining law and order during their time.
- Vauxhall Velox PA Series: Used for monthly transport inspections and general duties.
- Humber Hawk: Briefly trialed by the Rootes Group.
- Austin Westminsters (A99 and A110): Utilized for general police work.
- Chevrolet Bel Air Van: Employed by the Traffic Accident Section as an accident vehicle.
- SWB Land Rover: Used for patrols, especially in border areas and difficult terrains.
- Honda Dream 350cc: A unique motorcycle used by the Salisbury Enquiry Section.
- BMW 3000S "Highway Patrol": Extensively modified by CMED and based in Salisbury during the mid to late 70's.
- Ford Truck: Brand New Dog Section Ford truck for carrying several dogs at a time.
- Bedford 1.5 ton "Black Maria": Used from the late 50's through to early 60's.
- Mazda B1600 Pickup: Served as a standard patrol vehicle in urban areas during the 70's.
- Nissan 3 Tonne Lorry: The donor vehicle for the croc, in its standard form, with the Nissan badge removed from the front grille and the words "Nissan" burnt off of the steering wheel centre.
The Rhinos were workshop conversions of older Land Rovers and were prone to overheating for this reason.
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Land Rover BSAP
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The Role of the Central Mechanical Equipment Department (CMED)
The CMED played a vital role in the acquisition and maintenance of government vehicles. This department was responsible for ensuring that the police force had the necessary vehicles to perform their duties effectively. Many CMED members lost their lives while recovering or attending to damaged vehicles during times of conflict.
The CMED was responsible for the acquisition and maintenance of the majority of Govt vehicles and so played a critical role. A number of their members died while carrying out their normal duties during the war, especially when out in the sharp end going to recover or attend to broken down or damaged vehicles.
Paint Information
The article also requests information about the "CMED Grey" vehicle paint, suggesting it might be the "cammo grey" listed in British Standard Colours 381c.
Table of Police Vehicles in South Africa
| Vehicle Type | Usage | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Volkswagen Golf GTI | High-speed pursuits, suspect transport | Used by Durban Metro Police Service and Hawks |
| Land Rover (BSAP) | Patrols in border areas and difficult terrain | Used extensively by the British South Africa Police |
| Vauxhall Velox PA Series (BSAP) | Transport inspections and general duties | Used extensively by the British South Africa Police |
| BMW 3000S "Highway Patrol" | Highway Patrol | Extensively modified by CMED |
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