Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Police, Ian Cameron, has expressed disappointment in South African Police Service (SAPS) internal disciplinary processes, noting the disciplinary process against eight SAPS VIP protection officers accused of assault on a civilian on the N1 in Johannesburg has yet to conclude, over a year later.
“It is now a year since the July 2023 incident and the fact that no progress has been made signifies clear disregard for accountability. The inability of the SAPS internal disciplinary system to conclude the matter also undermines the credibility of SAPS in the eyes of the public,” Cameron said in a statement.
The SAPS assured the 6th Parliament’s Portfolio Committee on Police on 16 August 2023 that the disciplinary process would continue and remain independent of the criminal case, but Cameron called the slow progress of the process unwarranted.
Disciplinary action was initiated against the eight VIP officers immediately upon learning of the incident, with suspensions issued. The Committee then expressed concern regarding the implicated members, who remained employed, though on desk duty. The Committee then criticised the slow pace of the internal disciplinary process. This delay was reinforced by a “perception of impunity and prevalence of police brutality”, ultimately further damaging the reputation of the SAPS, Cameron stated.
Cameron went on to say that “the 2016 disciplinary regulations are clear,” internal disciplinary actions must proceed “regardless of ongoing court cases.” He further noted “the disciplinary regulations make provision for an expedited disciplinary process, and it is unclear why the SAPS are disregarding their own regulations.”
On behalf of the Committee, Cameron officially enquired as to the members’ current status, as they remain officers employed by the SAPS, and why the disciplinary action has yet to be completed.
“It must also send a clear message that any rogue element within the SAPS will be subjected to the full might of the law. SAPS officers must be an example to citizens and must protect the laws they are employed to enforce,” Cameron concluded.
The Police Committee is giving the SAPS ten days to explain why disciplinary processes against the eight accused have not yet concluded, and if it fails to do so, Cameron will insist the police explain the delays in Parliament.
In July 2023, eight officers of Deputy President Paul Mashatile’s blue light convoy were captured on video accosting and assaulting civilians they forced off the road for allegedly not obeying orders to move out of the convoy’s way.
