The Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Police, Ian Cameron, has expressed deep concern over recent developments within the South African Police Service (SAPS). He has raised alarm about two critical issues: the failure to act on intelligence before a deadly shooting at the Nyanga Terminus and the SAPS’ intention to close the Inspectorate Analysis Centre and Service Complaints component.

In a statement, Cameron expressed alarm at reports that authorities were aware of heightened tensions leading up to the fatal shooting at the Nyanga taxi rank. Media reports indicate that officials had prior knowledge of the threat but failed to prevent the tragedy.

“If the reports are true, the SAPS senior management should have implemented adequate measures to prevent the shooting. Intelligence-based information is only valuable if it is acted upon to thwart criminal acts. The SAPS must introspect on how to improve the functionality and effectiveness of its operations,” said Cameron.

While he acknowledged that the SAPS acted swiftly to prevent further loss of life, he stressed that anticipating the threat should have resulted in pre-emptive measures. The shooting, which occurred in a busy transport hub, underscores the urgent need for improved intelligence operations within the SAPS. “The committee will ensure that SAPS managers are held accountable,” Cameron stated.

The Committee has consistently advocated for a well-resourced and efficient intelligence service within the SAPS. According to Cameron, any delays in strengthening intelligence capabilities leave the country vulnerable to unchecked criminal activity.

Adding to his concerns, Cameron criticised the SAPS’ decision to shut down the Inspectorate Analysis Centre and Service Complaints component. He described the move as counterproductive and detrimental to accountability.

“The closure of this critical component is both pointless and against the spirit of accountability and Batho Pele principles, which assure citizens of quality government services. South Africa’s democracy depends on robust checks and balances within its institutions, and this decision undermines that foundation,” he said.

Cameron further warned that dismantling the component would weaken oversight and exacerbate the public’s mistrust in the police. He highlighted the committee’s reliance on this component to address the high volume of service delivery complaints it receives. “This component has been instrumental in resolving many complaints. Its closure will diminish SAPS’ capacity to address these issues effectively,” he added.

The Inspectorate Analysis Centre also plays a pivotal role in data-driven policing. It investigates individual cases, aggregates complaints to identify trends, and provides insights to inform corrective action. Cameron has cautioned that shutting down this component would undermine efforts to enhance accountability and improve policing outcomes.

The Chairperson announced plans to write to the Minister of Police and the National Commissioner to seek clarity on the rationale behind the decision to close the component. “The committee will engage with SAPS leadership to chart a desirable way forward that prioritises accountability and service delivery,” he stated.

According to Cameron, both issues highlight systemic challenges within the SAPS that demand urgent attention.  He further emphasised that the Portfolio Committee remains committed to ensuring that the SAPS upholds its mandate to protect and serve the people of South Africa efficiently and transparently.