On 1st December 2025, we published a Harm Reduction Guide for Dagga Private Clubs that basically collated all the information that is already available on our website into one readily available, easy-to-use document

This Harm Reduction Guide is freely available for download by DPC Member Clubs.

We can all do our part in reducing the harms caused by prohibition, as well as reducing the risks of Cannabis use through education, safe practices, and community care. Both are essential. Get the whole guide by signing up your club with us today.

There are six important documents highlighted in the Harm Reduction Guide that we highly recommend printing out and having on hand when running your DPC.

The third one is The SAPS Arrest Directive 2019
(National Instruction 11 of 2019)

Why:
This internal SAPS instruction sets out the procedures police officers must follow when making
arrests. Importantly, it warns that members can be held personally liable for unlawful arrests and
the associated costs. Having this on-site reminds officers that they themselves are accountable if
they act outside of procedure.

Key points to highlight:
Purpose of Arrest
“The purpose of an arrest is to secure the attendance of the accused in court. Arrest may not
be used to punish, harass, or intimidate.”

Proportionality
“An arrest must only be affected if it is the least invasive method available to secure
attendance in court. Where a summons or written notice will suffice, an arrest is not
justified.”

Reasonable Suspicion
“An arrest without a warrant requires that the arresting officer has a reasonable suspicion
that the person has committed an offence. Personal dislike, assumptions, or the mere
presence of a person at a location are not sufficient.”

Officer’s Duty
“Members must exercise their discretion responsibly. Unlawful arrests expose the Service
and the individual officer to civil claims and disciplinary action.”
Personal Liability – Point 20 (Page 10)
“Where an arrest is made without lawful grounds, the arresting officer may be held
personally liable for the costs and damages arising from the unlawful arrest.”