SAPS cracks down on misuse of badge, insignia in AI content

The South African Police Service (SAPS) has issued a stern warning regarding the usage of its badge and insignia in AI-generated content.

In recent years, content creators have increasingly leveraged AI (artificial intelligence) to design and share realistic photos and videos. There are a multitude of reasons why, including for entertainment purposes, financial gain or to attract clicks and likes.

Now, it appears that folks are incorporating SAPS-related imagery in this content. This has prompted the police service to take a firm stance against this usage.

SAPS’ RESPONSE TO UNLAWFUL USE OF BADGE, INSIGNIA

In a statement released on Tuesday, 27 October 2026, Brakpan SAPS noted the increased use of AI-generated content featuring its badge and insignia being circulated on social media. 

This, they explained, is a direct contravention of Section 66 of the SAPS Act 68 of 1995.

“The SAPS emblem and badge are legally protected and may not be copied, altered or used without the required permission,” the statement reads. “The Brakpan SAPS would like to educate members of the public about the importance and strict adherence of the SAPS badge and emblem.”

‘MISLEADING TO THE PUBLIC’

Brakpan SAPS said although utilising AI tools to create content that includes police-related imagery may seem harmless, such content “may be easily misinterpreted” as verified information.

“Such images can be misleading to the public,” they stated. “This warning is part of the broader effort to prevent the misuse of AI-generated images that could mislead or deceive public members.

“SAPS members are also subject to social media rules which regulate the use of social media and restrict the unauthorised posting of images in uniform or the display of SAPS insignia on private accounts.”

SAPS URGES RESPONSIBLE AI USE

The South African Police Service hopes that their warning will encourage the public to use AI tools responsibly. Specifically, users do so without exploiting their badge, insignia or even police uniforms to create images or videos that may be interpreted as authentic content.

They also urge the public who witness the unauthorised use of police paraphernalia to their nearest police station.

In other news, SAPS has received more than 300 000 profile registrations as South Africans apply for one of 5 500 available police trainee posts.