The South African Police Service (SAPS) has provided a comprehensive update on its progress in implementing recommendations issued by the Portfolio Committee on Police (PCOP). The report outlined key achievements in crime-fighting operations, administrative improvements, and ongoing challenges facing the department.
A delegation of senior SAPS officials shared recent successes in law enforcement. “In the past two weeks, three drug traffickers were arrested at OR Tambo International Airport,” reported Brigadier CB Mitchell, who presented the report to the Committee. Among them were two South Africans caught with R7.5 million worth of cocaine, as well as a 55-year-old Nigerian national. Additionally, a separate operation led to the seizure of R6 million worth of cocaine disguised as hair products.
Furthermore, through coordinated efforts, more than 14,165 suspects have been arrested across various crime categories.
One of the primary concerns raised was SAPS’ financial management, particularly regarding civil claims. The department has faced over 4,000 civil lawsuits amounting to R2.2 billion, with R600 million already paid out. “To address this, we have established a national steering committee on civil claims to conduct root cause analyses and implement proactive measures,” Brigadier explained.
To improve internal discipline, SAPS has introduced dedicated disciplinary units at both national and provincial levels. “This structure has been finalised and is currently under consultation,” stated Brigadier Mitchell.
SAPS has introduced National Instruction 5 of 2024, a framework for auditing performance information and enforcing accountability. “Audit steering committees now operate at national, divisional, and provincial levels, meeting monthly to address audit findings,” the report noted.
Additionally, a skills audit for station commanders is set to be completed by the 2024/25 financial year to ensure proper training in compliance, leadership, and operational management.
Committee members Diane Kohler-Barnard and Lisa Schickerling raised several concerns regarding firearm management and training deficiencies. “Our collaboration with the Professional Firearm Training Council ensures compliance with training standards,” SAPS noted. However, issues such as limited access to shooting ranges and insufficient ammunition for training were highlighted.
To address firearm losses among SAPS officers, a tracking system is being introduced. “We are close to finalising the rollout of gun tracking devices,” Brigadier Mitchell confirmed.
SAPS continues to struggle with issues related to leased properties, with over 1,000 facilities currently under lease agreements. The department is exploring a “lease-to-own” strategy to reduce long-term rental costs. Additionally, projects such as the construction of new forensic laboratories in KwaZulu-Natal and upgrades to police stations in the Western Cape are underway.
SAPS reassured the committee that lifestyle audits are conducted annually for senior and middle management. “Financial disclosures are analysed in detail, and anomalies are flagged for further investigation,” Brigadier Mitchell stated. However, committee members expressed concerns about slow action against officials living beyond their means, with reports of some junior officers owning luxury vehicles.
While SAPS’ presentation was acknowledged for its detail, committee members voiced scepticism regarding implementation. “The report is well-written, but we need to see practical action, not just plans on paper,” Committee member Vusi Shongwe remarked.
The issue of security clearances for high-ranking officials also came under scrutiny. “Since 2021, five major generals and ten brigadiers still lack security clearance. When will this be resolved?” Committee member Fadiel Adams asked.
Despite SAPS’ efforts, members of the Portfolio Committee called for greater transparency and tangible results. “We need to move from discussions to implementation,” officials urged. SAPS has committed to providing regular updates and ensuring that recommendations translate into meaningful reforms.
The next committee meeting is intended to focus on scrutinising SAPS’ strategies for addressing key concerns, particularly in crime intelligence, operational efficiency, and financial accountability.
