Following reports of malfeasance at the South African Police Service’s (SAPS’s) Philippi training academy, the Portfolio Committee on Police has urged SAPS management to use the academy as a platform for practically implementing its goal of creating an effective organisation.

This comes after the Committee on 29 November presented a detailed report on its oversight visit to the Training Academy and concerns about governance and the overall condition of the institution.

“The Philippi Training Academy reflects the broader challenges facing SAPS at various levels. Completing investigations into alleged misconduct, which may result in prosecutions, is key to restoring public trust in SAPS,” said Ian Cameron, Chairperson of the committee.

The committee also expressed dissatisfaction with the slow pace of internal investigations and audits at the academy. The investigation, which began in October 2023, is expected to conclude in March 2025. The committee believes that such a lengthy investigation contributes to a negative perception of SAPS’s commitment to pursuing accountability and justice.

Further, the committee pointed out that allegations against senior leaders within the academy have not been adequately pursued. Without clear investigations and prosecutorial action, there is concern that the perpetrators will be emboldened to act with impunity, the committee said in a statement on 30 November.

The committee sought to emphasise that while challenges at the Philippi Training Academy are well understood, they are part of broader systemic issues within SAPS. It called for a holistic approach to address these problems, including collaboration with the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure, as well as the Department of Social Development, to ensure a coordinated effort toward resolution.

The committee has pledged to maintain its oversight focus on the academy moving forward.

During its oversight visit in September, the committee looked into allegations of mismanagement, criminal activity, corruption, and leadership failures. It is estimated that over R100 million has been stolen over the last six years at the academy.