The Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Police, Ian Cameron, has called on senior management within the South African Police Service (SAPS) to cease self-destructive behaviors that could undermine the progress already made in reforming the service into an effective force against crime.
“There has been significant progress in the fight against crime, but concerning senior management appointments and ongoing challenges within the crime intelligence unit threaten to derail these positive efforts. SAPS leadership must decide whether they will contribute to building a better future for South Africa or undermine the country’s progress,” Cameron stated.
After conducting five months of oversight over SAPS and related entities, the committee has identified senior management’s failure to drive necessary reforms as a central issue. This challenge is worsened by the appointment of individuals who are unqualified or unsuitable to lead key strategic interventions needed to combat crime. “While not all senior managers in SAPS are ineffective, the presence of rogue and incompetent officers weakens the stability of the entire organisation,” Cameron added.
A turning point for the SAPS occurred earlier this year with the dismissal of Major-General Mzwandile Tiyo, the head of crime intelligence in the Western Cape, following a comprehensive Section 34 inquiry. Tiyo’s removal was based on serious allegations, including misuse of state resources, kidnapping, and assault. This decision sent a clear message that misconduct, even at the highest levels, would not be tolerated, the committee said.
“However, the recent revocation of Tiyo’s dismissal raises serious concerns about SAPS’ commitment to accountability,” Cameron remarked. “Rather than facing the consequences of his actions, Tiyo is being encouraged to take early retirement—an option prohibited under SAPS National Instruction 3/2017 for employees with pending cases. This decision undermines public trust and damages the morale of ethical officers, as it seems to shield rogue elements from accountability.”
Similarly, the appointment of Major-General Patrick Mbotho as Divisional Commissioner for National Priority Offences within the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation has further deepened the perception of a culture of impunity within the SAPS.
While the committee acknowledges the actions taken against mainly junior officers, Cameron stressed that reform must apply across all levels of the service, from senior management to rank-and-file officers. “If we are to rebuild trust in SAPS, it is essential that unfit and rogue officers are removed from all ranks. Strengthening this trust will create a better environment to fight crime,” he said.
The committee has also welcomed the reduction in crime statistics for the second quarter, but remains concerned about the continuing wave of violent crime, including the horrific 18 murders in Lusikisiki and ongoing gang violence in Cape Town. These incidents highlight the persistent challenges SAPS faces in addressing crime, compounded by inadequate resources within the detective and crime intelligence units, the committee said.
The crime intelligence unit remains a particular concern, with several issues undermining its effectiveness. “Resistance to reform within the crime intelligence unit is exacerbating the situation. One major-general has allegedly been ‘off sick’ since 2017, repeatedly delaying disciplinary hearings by changing union representatives and failing to submit necessary medical documentation. Another major-general, reportedly a multimillionaire, has been linked to questionable procurement practices involving the secret service fund and allegations of obstructing justice in a cocaine seizure case,” Cameron revealed. “Both individuals appear to be part of a faction resisting reform and seem intent on preserving access to the notorious slush fund.”
Over the past five months, the committee has also raised concerns about the widespread problem of extortion in South Africa, which is having a severe socio-economic impact. This practice hampers critical economic activities, including infrastructure development and the growth of small businesses. The committee will intensify its oversight of this issue, which requires urgent attention and effective countermeasures.
“The ultimate test will be how SAPS management responds to these concerns and whether they can take decisive action to ensure a safe and secure country,” concluded Cameron. “If they can overcome these self-destructive behaviors, SAPS could be on the path to the recovery necessary to effectively combat crime and serve the people of South Africa.”
