Minister of Police Senzo Mchunu appeared before the National Council of Provinces (NCOP) on 13 May 2025, to respond to questions regarding a range of policing concerns, from drug abuse in schools to VIP protection and organised crime. His responses offered insight into ongoing collaborative efforts with other departments, as well as the operational and policy frameworks guiding police conduct and national safety strategies.

Addressing Drug Abuse in Schools

Minister Mchunu outlined the South African Police Service’s (SAPS) approach to tackling drug abuse and criminal activity in schools, referencing active partnerships with the Department of Basic Education. “We employ various strategies such as school safety programs, which address bullying, gender-based violence, drugs, and substance abuse,” he said. These include search-and-seizure operations, often carried out in coordination with school authorities or initiated based on community intelligence.

Responding to questions from NCOP members about youth vulnerability and accessibility of drugs, Mchunu acknowledged the growing concern. He emphasised the need for stronger community partnerships and forthcoming engagements with the Basic Education Ministry. “We want to craft new responses, because the age at which children are exposed to drugs is getting lower and lower,” he said.

He also stated that SAPS is tracing the full value chain of drug distribution, including the discovery of drug-manufacturing sites like those recently found in Standerton. “It’s no use removing drugs from schools and streets if the supply chain is still intact,” he added.

Gang Activity and Anti-Gang Units

In response to concerns over gang members disguising themselves in school uniforms to peddle drugs, Mchunu said specialised SAPS units, including anti-gang and drug units, continue to address the issue. He admitted, however, that resources remain constrained, particularly in areas like the Cape Flats.

“We know we have an outstanding meeting with community organisations in the Western Cape. We owe them a report-back,” he said, referring to pending engagements intended to boost localised policing collaboration.

VIP Protection and Public Concerns

Questions were also raised about the allocation of resources to VIP protection. Mchunu defended the policies guiding SAPS’s VIP Protection Unit, stating that risk-based assessments—rather than political pressure—determine the level of protection offered to officials.

“There is no automatic escalation of protection. Every increase or adjustment is based on threat and risk assessments,” he told the NCOP, referencing concerns over the shooting incident involving the deputy president’s convoy.

Pressed further about public perceptions of bloated VIP budgets amid shortages in police resources for everyday South Africans, Mchunu urged separation of issues: “Let’s not suggest communities go underserved because money is spent on VIP protection. That would be misleading.”

He confirmed that no complaints had been received from protected persons about inadequacies in their protection and said he was satisfied with the level of service SAPS provides in this area.

Investigations and Public Transparency

On the alleged shooting incident targeting the deputy president’s convoy, Mchunu confirmed that the matter is under investigation. “The national commissioner will, in due course, make the outcome public,” he stated, adding that no contradictions had come from the government’s side.

He reiterated that government protection services are guided by cabinet-approved policies and regulations, and that VIPs—ranging from the executive to traditional leaders—are treated according to structured criteria, not political favour.

Throughout his appearance, Minister Mchunu emphasised collaboration as a key strategy, both with other departments and communities. He confirmed that SAPS continues to prioritise safety at schools, combat organized crime, and maintain security for government officials, while acknowledging resource challenges.

“Our approach must be comprehensive. This includes law enforcement, community education, interdepartmental coordination, and a clear policy framework,” he concluded.