South African Police Service https://www.gov.za/ en Acting National Commissioner Khomotso Phahlane briefs media on investigation into allegations of corruption within Forensic Services Division, 1 Dec https://www.gov.za/speeches/acting-national-commissioner-khomotso-phahlane-briefs-media-investigation-2012-allegations <span> Acting National Commissioner Khomotso Phahlane briefs media on investigation into allegations of corruption within Forensic Services Division, 1 Dec </span> <span><span>Vuyelwa</span></span> <span>Thu, 12/01/2016 - 09:57</span> <div class="field field--name-field-gcis-speech-date field--type-datetime field--label-hidden field__item"><time datetime="2016-12-01T12:00:00Z">01 Dec 2016</time></div> <div class="field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><h3>Invitation to media briefing : Lt Gen Khomotso Phahlane : Findings of independent forensic and auditing company on 2012 allegations of corruption within the Forensic Services Division</h3> <p>Representatives of the news media are cordially invited to a media briefing this afternoon, to be hosted by the Acting National Commissioner of the South African Police Service, Lieutenant General Khomotso Phahlane.</p> <p>Lt Gen Phahlane will brief the media on a report released to the SAPS by an independent forensic and auditing company on its investigation into 2012 allegations of inter alia corruption within the Forensic Services Division.</p> <p>The media briefing will be held as follows:<br />Date: Thursday, 1 December, 2016<br />Time: 16h00 for 16h30 (refreshments will be served at 16h00)<br />Venue: The conference centre at the SAPS Tshwane Academy, Rebecca Street, Pretoria West</p> <p>Enquiries:<br />Brigadier Mashadi Selepe<br />Cell: 060 997 5094</p> <p> </p> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-speech-event-category field--type-entity-reference field--label-inline clearfix"> <div class="field__label">Event Category</div> <div class="field__item"><a href="https://www.gov.za/event-category/media-briefings" hreflang="en">Media briefings</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-issued-by-source field--type-entity-reference field--label-inline clearfix"> <div class="field__label">Issued by</div> <div class="field__item"><div> <div class="field field--name-field-website-url field--type-link field--label-hidden field__item"><a href="https://www.saps.gov.za/" target="_blank">South African Police Service</a></div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-department field--type-entity-reference field--label-inline clearfix"> <div class="field__label">More from</div> <div class="field__item"><a href="https://www.gov.za/taxonomy/term/922" hreflang="en">South African Police Service</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-gcis-speech-category field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__item"><a href="https://www.gov.za/taxonomy/term/950" hreflang="en">Media advisories</a></div> Thu, 01 Dec 2016 07:57:47 +0000 Vuyelwa 758925 at https://www.gov.za https://www.gov.za/speeches/acting-national-commissioner-khomotso-phahlane-briefs-media-investigation-2012-allegations#comments Commissioner Khehla John Sitole condemns killing of police officer https://www.gov.za/news/media-statements/commissioner-khehla-john-sitole-condemns-killing-police-officer-17-mar-2020 <span> Commissioner Khehla John Sitole condemns killing of police officer</span> <span><span>Vuyelwa</span></span> <span>Tue, 03/17/2020 - 15:21</span> <div class="field field--name-field-gcis-speech-date field--type-datetime field--label-hidden field__item"><time datetime="2020-03-17T12:00:00Z">17 Mar 2020</time></div> <div class="field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><h3>National Commissioner condemns killing of a police officer</h3> <p>The National Commissioner of the South African Police Service, General Khehla John Sitole has, in the strongest possible terms, condemned the senseless killing of 49-year-old Lieutenant Colonel Leroy Bruwer this morning.</p> <p>Colonel Bruwer, who was attached to the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation the Hawks), was driving to work this morning at 06:30 when he was shot at on Lydenburg Road in Nelspruit with what appeared to be heavy calibre weapons by unknown gunmen. Colonel Bruwer died on the scene. </p> <p>Colonel Bruwer was a seasoned investigator within the DPCI environment and always excelled in cracking complex cases, particularly related to rhino poaching. </p> <p>The National Commissioner has called on a multidisciplinary team to mobilise the 72-hour Activation Plan and urged the team not to rest until Colonel Bruwer’s killers are brought to book.</p> <p>“The SAPS family and the community have suffered a huge loss,” said General Sitole.</p> <p>"I have extended my deepest condolences to Colonel Bruwer’s family and promised a thorough investigation into the Colonel's senseless killing,” added General Sitole.</p> <p>We are appealing to anyone who may have information on this case to please contact the SAPS on 086 00 10111 or information may be communicated via the SAPS MySAPSApp. All information will be treated with the strictest confidence and callers may remain anonymous.</p> <p>Enquiries:<br />Brigadier Vishnu Naidoo<br />Cell: 082 567 4153</p> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-issued-by-source field--type-entity-reference field--label-inline clearfix"> <div class="field__label">Issued by</div> <div class="field__item"><div> <div class="field field--name-field-website-url field--type-link field--label-hidden field__item"><a href="https://www.saps.gov.za/" target="_blank">South African Police Service</a></div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-department field--type-entity-reference field--label-inline clearfix"> <div class="field__label">More from</div> <div class="field__item"><a href="https://www.gov.za/taxonomy/term/922" hreflang="en">South African Police Service</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-gcis-speech-subjects field--type-entity-reference field--label-inline clearfix"> <div class="field__label">More on</div> <div class="field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="https://www.gov.za/speech-subjects/crime" hreflang="en">Crime</a></div> </div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-gcis-speech-category field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__item"><a href="https://www.gov.za/speech-categories/media-statements" hreflang="en">Media Statements</a></div> Tue, 17 Mar 2020 13:21:30 +0000 Vuyelwa 796397 at https://www.gov.za https://www.gov.za/news/media-statements/commissioner-khehla-john-sitole-condemns-killing-police-officer-17-mar-2020#comments Deputy Minister Maggie Sotyu: SAPS Front-Line Service Delivery Project launch https://www.gov.za/news/speeches/deputy-minister-maggie-sotyu-saps-front-line-service-delivery-project-launch-11-dec <span> Deputy Minister Maggie Sotyu: SAPS Front-Line Service Delivery Project launch</span> <span><span>lebang</span></span> <span>Thu, 01/15/2015 - 10:06</span> <div class="field field--name-field-gcis-speech-date field--type-datetime field--label-hidden field__item"><time datetime="2014-12-11T12:00:00Z">11 Dec 2014</time></div> <div class="field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><p>Programme Director,<br />Traditional and Religious Leadership,<br />MEC for Community Safety and Transport, Mr Molapisi,<br />Acting District Mayor and all Councillors,<br />National Commissioner of Police, General Riah Phiyega,<br />Provincial Commissioner of Police, Lt General Mbombo,<br />All SAPS Top Management,<br />CPF Representatives,<br />Labour Union Representatives,<br />Members of the Community,<br />Youth and Children,<br />Ladies and Gentlemen,</p> <p>When the ANC became a ruling party in 1994, it unequivocally decided that the public service will be judged on only one criteria: a public service that needs to be effective in its deliverance of service, and to be able to meet the basic needs of all the inhabitants of South Africa.</p> <p>This meant that, programmes of Government should always contribute towards an enhanced better life for all. The desirable outcomes of the Public Service had to be immediately aimed at service delivery and the promotion of human dignity.</p> <p>It is undeniable that the primary sphere or site of this desired service delivery has always been at the local government level; the municipalities to be precise. And, this is also where our police stations are located.</p> <p>Despite major achievements made over the 20 years at this local government level, more enormous work has to be done still.</p> <p>The Department of COGTA has warned all Government Departments operating at Local Government level, that only 7% of municipalities could be regarded as municipalities doing very well.</p> <p>COGTA has thus called all people mandated to deliver service to the public, to join the effort to build a responsive and accountable Local Government.</p> <p>The Minister of COGTA has also issued all Departments with a monitoring and intervention tool/instrument to “go back to basics” in order to serve our communities better.</p> <p>This means, improving service delivery at front-line service Departments such as SAPS, we need public servants that are committed to delivering quality service to the citizens. During the National Launch of Public Service Month on 2nd September 2014, the Deputy President Mr. Cyril Ramaphosa endorsed this fact.</p> <p>He said: “To function effectively, the public service needs to institutionalize a sustainable and holistic approach to innovation in public governance and administration. Public servants need to become change agents, enablers and facilitators. They need to collaborate with citizens to resolve complex service delivery challenges”.</p> <p>The performance of the public servants who deal directly with the public must therefore be continuously monitored as well. This Government can no longer afford or tolerate a performance that falls below specific standards.</p> <p>In the same vein, the then Minister in the Presidency, Mr. Collins Chabane, launched The Framework for Strengthening Citizen-Government Partnerships for Frontline Service Delivery Monitoring last year August.</p> <p>This Framework went beyond the monitoring of the public servant and his/her institution, and began to involve the citizens as well.</p> <p>Thus, the Department of Monitoring and Evaluation (DPME) decided that government departments involved in service delivery to the public must adjust their monitoring and evaluation frameworks to include mechanisms for incorporating the views and experiences of the citizens on service delivery.</p> <p>I am pleased General Phiyega, to see that you have obliged the Department of Police to do just that. I noticed in your concept paper entitled “Promoting Professionalism: Implementation of Front-Line Service Delivery Project in the SAPS”, that you have already piloted 9 Police Stations at different Provinces, and have come up with several tangible recommendations.</p> <p>But, I can’t yet help noticing that, most of the recommendations provided in that document, are not far-fetched from the ones that we got from the SAPS Top 1500 Conference and Ministerial Engagement, held earlier this year.</p> <p>This means then, that we must not neglect to address the needs of the internal customer/client (employee of the Frontline Service Department).</p> <p>We must take cognizant that a well-managed organization commits both time and resources to issues of monitoring and evaluation of the organization’s performance, both internally and externally.</p> <p>I conclude by saying, both the employee and the public are key protagonists in ensuring effective and thus successful implementation of the progressive framework from the DPME, as customized to each Department’s specific mandate.</p> <p>I have no doubt that we have the majority of men and women in blue who always go beyond the call of duty to provide services to the citizens’ expectations and at times surpassing the member of the public’s expectation.</p> <p>Without you, police officers, Batho Pele, will only remain an abstract mysterious and hallow word. Let us then continue to enrich this word by putting people first and giving them quality service at police stations.</p> <p>I thank you all.</p> <p>Media Enquiries:</p> <p>Ms Nomsa Hani<br />Tel: 012 3934469 / 21 4677023<br />Cell: 0) 82 772 2053<br />E-mail: <a href="mailto:HaniNomsa@saps.gov.za">HaniNomsa@saps.gov.za</a> or <a href="mailto:nomsa.hani@gmail.com">nomsa.hani@gmail.com</a><br /> <br /> </p> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-issued-by-source field--type-entity-reference field--label-inline clearfix"> <div class="field__label">Issued by</div> <div class="field__item"><div> <div class="field field--name-field-website-url field--type-link field--label-hidden field__item"><a href="https://www.saps.gov.za/" target="_blank">South African Police Service</a></div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-department field--type-entity-reference field--label-inline clearfix"> <div class="field__label">More from</div> <div class="field__item"><a href="https://www.gov.za/taxonomy/term/922" hreflang="en">South African Police Service</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-gcis-speech-subjects field--type-entity-reference field--label-inline clearfix"> <div class="field__label">More on</div> <div class="field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="https://www.gov.za/taxonomy/term/723" hreflang="en">Service delivery</a></div> </div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-gcis-speech-category field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__item"><a href="https://www.gov.za/speech-categories/speeches" hreflang="en">Speeches</a></div> Thu, 15 Jan 2015 08:06:59 +0000 lebang 732930 at https://www.gov.za https://www.gov.za/news/speeches/deputy-minister-maggie-sotyu-saps-front-line-service-delivery-project-launch-11-dec#comments Minister Bheki Cele: Briefing on SAPS successes https://www.gov.za/news/speeches/minister-bheki-cele-briefing-saps-successes-26-sep-2023 <span> Minister Bheki Cele: Briefing on SAPS successes</span> <span><span>Vuyelwa</span></span> <span>Tue, 09/26/2023 - 12:22</span> <div class="field field--name-field-gcis-speech-date field--type-datetime field--label-hidden field__item"><time datetime="2023-09-26T12:00:00Z">26 Sep 2023</time></div> <div class="field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><h3>Talking points for Police Minister, General Bheki Cele, at the press conference of police take down successes of police counter operations </h3> <p>Morning Ladies and Gentlemen,</p> <p>Today’s briefing is on the policing successes in the fight against crime.</p> <p>In line with the theme for this year’s Budget Vote of “Combating Crime through Decisive Police Action and Robust Community involvement”</p> <p>The operationalisation of the Increased Crime Prevention and Combating Action Plan through Operation Shanela is yielding desired results in combatting organised crime.</p> <p>This is the very reason why this administration is stamping the authority of the State through the adoption of an aggressive high-density policing approach; ‘Operation Shanela’ to conduct crime prevention and combating operations. National intervention teams are also hard at work in stabilising various provincial crime challenges.</p> <p>The Security Cluster working with synergy and agility through the National Joints Operational and Intelligence structures (NatJOINTS) is also commendable.</p> <p>But over and above all this, we have gone to lengths as this government, to capacitate the SAPS Crime Intelligence division; so that it is effective and capable and frankly up to the task to identify and infiltrate syndicates.</p> <p>We have made serious inroads in stabilising the institution</p> <p>Each day, the Intelligence community, through working with the SAPS specialised units and intervention teams, is responding to crime and dismantling syndicates, cartels and any organized criminal groupings using violence for their criminal gains.</p> <p>This is why we have called this press conference today.</p> <p>Members of the Media,</p> <p>We wish to provide a thorough update on the work of the police who are pushing back against crime in the country and flushing out ruthless and greedy organised criminal syndicates.</p> <p>We will today highlight some of the major successes achieved by the SAPS in the last couple of weeks but also remind the nation of the work that has been achieved through planning and interception of gangs in recent days.</p> <p>The work of the SAPS has, through intelligence led operations and weekly high density operations, resulted in the arrest of thousands of criminals, especially dangerous and hardened criminals.</p> <p>Assets worth millions of rand have been recovered and firearms have been removed off our streets.</p> <p>These covert operations have also resulted in multiple deaths of suspects who violently resisted arrest.</p> <p>Some of these meticulously conducted take-downs should renew our hope as a country, that officers in blue are gaining ground againts crime and continue to flush out criminality in both affluent and impoverished areas of society.</p> <p>South Africans on various platforms have welcomed the bolstered and desicive policing efforts by the SAPS who are going toe-to toe with criminals.</p> <p>But in the same breath, we are also aware that the SAPS triumphs over crime is a bitter pill to swallow by some.</p> <p>During this press conference we also wish to expand on an emerging Criminal Block that is attempting to push an anti-police agenda; I will elaborate on this later.</p> <p>Ladies and Gentlemen</p> <p>I wish to start my address this morning,  by highlighting SOME of the high profile and major interceptions achieved by the SAPS as a direct result of improved coordination between Crime Intelligence and Specialised units of the SAPS.</p> <p>Crime Intelligence information remains central in the take-down of armed and ruthless gangs.</p> <p>In the past week alone, police have registered a number of successes, including the latest take down of Cash-in-transit heist suspects in Hoedspruit, Limpopo in which four suspects were killed and three suspects arrested.</p> <p><strong>Taking  from a statement  released by the Hoedspruit Farmwatchers</strong></p> <p>“The Hoedspruit Farmwatch have a very good relationship with our local police and a large number of specialist SAPS units and we work very well in partnership with them.   We are there only to support and strengthen their hands.    The police did NOT run away from the scene and were there from start to way beyond the end.   SAPS on all levels did an awesome job and we are very proud to work with them.”</p> <p>We would like to take this opportunity to appreciate the working relationship with the Hoedspruit Farmwatchers who worked closely with the SAPS in taking down this syndicate.</p> <p>Among those arrested was a most wanted suspect, a Mozambican national, linked to a murder of a police officer, a spate of car hijackings, house and business robberies and fraud cases.</p> <p>Police seized one pistol, a rifle and some of the stolen money.</p> <p>In Gauteng, a multidisciplinary team led by the Anti-Kidnapping Task Team rescued an 18-year-old Wits University student from a kidnapping syndicate last Wednesday, 20 September 2023.</p> <p>The syndicate had been targeting the L G B T Q I + community through a popular dating app.</p> <p>Police have broken the back of this particular kidnapping syndicate that has so far been linked to over 50 kidnappings, where ransom demands were being made.</p> <p>Still on Kidnapping, in the NORTH WEST In August 2023, an intelligence driven operation led to the arrest of seven (7) suspects who kidnapped the victims for ransom related to municipality tenders.</p> <p>The clients were lured to a house to sign a contract/documents relating to a Solar geyser project to the value of R17 million.</p> <p>The suspects, who were dressed in police uniform, were found holding the victims hostage and demanding an amount of 300 thousand rand.</p> <p>The suspects are facing Kidnapping charges including that of Impersonating Police officials and Possession of fraudulent documents. Recoveries included: Two (2) unlicensed firearms (pistols) with fifteen (15) live rounds, SAPS uniform with two (2) appointment certificates and two (2) vehicles</p> <p>In KwaZulu-Natal, following a shooting incicident which resulted in the fatal shooting of five men at a parking lot of a shopping centre in Richards Bay on the 19th September 2023.  24 hours later, Police acted on information and traced two suspects to an upmarket estate in Ballito where a shootout ensued.</p> <p>The pair were shot and killed during a take down operation which involved specialised units of the SAPS, including the National Intervention Unit (NIU)</p> <p>One of the suspects was on the police wanted list and being investigated in a number of cases. One suspect is is being sought by police.</p> <p>Two (2) Rifles, Two (2) Shot guns, Four (4) 9mm pistols, Fifty Eight (58) Rifle live ammunition, Fourteen (14) Shotgun live Ammunition & Thirty Nine (39) 9mm live ammunition rounds were confiscated during this operation.</p> <p>In the Eastern Cape, police arrested a gang that had robbed a store of R1 million worth of jewellery.</p> <p>Just hours later, police followed up on information and tracked down and arrested all ten suspects, following a crime intelligence driven operation.</p> <p>All the stolen jewellery was recovered as well as four firearms.</p> <p>This syndicate is linked to numerous other similar heists across the country.</p> <p>Illegal mining syndicates are also being intercepted and taken down.</p> <p>In Carolina, Mpumalanga, the illicit mining task team shutdown an illegally operated coal mine and seized mining equipment worth over R60 million rand as well as coal worth R12 million.</p> <p>A mine manager was arrested and a manhunt is underway for the mine owner.</p> <p>In Khutsong in the Gauteng province, the DPCI under Operation Gillette arrested nine suspects for illegal mining and they attached through preservation order, 58 properties (51 Vehicles including luxury vehicles and seven houses) to the value of over R17 million.</p> <p>They will be appearing in court 29 September 2023.</p> <p>In the Northern Cape, 867 illegal miners were arrested during an intelligence driven operation in the Namakwa region on Tuesday 19 September 2023.</p> <p>The area which is a hotspot for illegal mining activities is being closely monitored and police are working closely with other relevant departments to combat illegal mining activities.</p> <p><strong>Cash in Transit Heists takedowns</strong></p> <p> From 01 April to date, the following successes were achieved.</p> <ul><li>On 06 April 2023, an Intelligence Driven proactive operation was conducted in Sebokeng, West of Johannesburg, where a group of 11 suspects were shot and killed during a shootout with the Police. The suspects were intercepted before they left their safe house en-route to commit a Cash In-transit robbery.<br /> </li> </ul><p>6 Rifles and 6 Explosives, Bullet Proof Vests, Hand Radios and 4 vehicles were recovered during this Operation.</p> <ul><li>On 19 May 2023, an intelligence driven operation was conducted to intercept a group of suspects who were planning a CIT robbery in the Soweto/West Rand area.<br /> </li> </ul><p>Five (5) suspects were arrested Three (3) rifles, One (1) black 9mm Vector 9mm pistol, One (1) signal jamming device, false vehicle registration plates were among items recovered.</p> <p>Five (5) vehicles were also found on the premises and confiscated.</p> <ul><li>On 12 August 2023, a Takedown Operation was conducted in Eden Park, East of Johannesburg, where CIT suspects were intercepted at their safe house prior to committing the crime. 5 Suspects were arrested, 3 Firearms and Five vehicles confiscated</li> </ul><p>Limpopo</p> <ul><li>In Limpopo on 01 September 2023, a highly publicized intelligence driven operation saw the interception of a CIT syndicate operating between Gauteng, Mpumalanga and Limpopo who were planning a CIT robbery in the Makhado area.</li> </ul><p>An over 90 minute long shootout ensued between police and the suspects at the safe house resulting in the death of 19 suspects including two females.</p> <p>Eleven (11) rifles, one (1) pistol, three hundred (300) rounds of ammunition and several explosives and nine (9) vehicles were recovered.</p> <p>Out of the 9 vehicles 6 were reported stolen.</p> <p>Members of the media,</p> <p>We wish to also highlight that the work of the CI in rooting out some corrupt officers also taking part in criminality.</p> <ul><li>In Mpumalanga, on 04 August 2023, an intelligence driven operation was conducted at the target’s safe house in Masoyi, Hazyview to recover Firearms resulting in 01 suspect arrested and confiscated (4) AK 47 Rifles, fifteen (15) magazines, 343 live rounds of ammunition and explosives were recovered.</li> </ul><ul><li>In the same province, on Friday 28 July 2023, an intelligence driven operation was conducted to follow up information on CIT suspects which led to the arrest of a Mbombela traffic official.</li> </ul><p>The vehicles that were identified at the crime scene were found parked in her yard. The two (2) vehicles were confiscated.</p> <p>The suspect was charged for conspiracy to commit crime and robbery under aggravating circumstances, attempted murder, unlawful possession of firearms and ammunition.</p> <p>The case against the traffic official has been postponed to tomorrow, 27 September 2023.</p> <ul><li>On 17 August 2023, seven (7) suspects were arrested at Nelspruit in Mpumalanga of which three (3) were members of SAPS Highway Patrol who were involved in Cash in Transit Heists in Mpumalanga.</li> </ul><p>Six (6) riffles, one (1) 9mm pistol, twelve (12) fully loaded magazines, explosives and detonator cord were recovered during this operation.</p> <p>The recovered pistol was subsequently linked to the CIT incident which took place on 11 August 2023, in Malelane, Mpumalanga.</p> <p><strong>Umhlaba Uyalingana</strong></p> <p>Safety and security has been restored in Emanguzi in Northern KZN where communities had been living in fear due to cross border motor vehicle theft syndicates operating in the area.</p> <p>This follows the deployment of a task team to clamp down on cross-border vehicle smuggling syndicates in the area.</p> <p>Since its deployment from 1st February to date, 140 suspects have been arrested for various crimes including theft, robbery and murder.</p> <p>64 vehicles have since been recovered and 57 firearms have also been seized.</p> <p>In August police registered a major breakthrough when three of the most wanted cross border vehicle smuggling suspects were arrested for the murder of KZN anti-crime activisit, Juda Mthethwa.</p> <p>Mthethwa was gunned down outside his home in February this year.</p> <p><strong>Crime intelligence</strong></p> <p>Ladies and Gentlemen</p> <p>I have highlighted some of the work that is a direct result of a capacitated SAPS that has effective units that are up to the task and working without fear of favour.</p> <p>Crime Intelligence operators with the work of informants and units within the SAPS continue to clamp down on organized crimes linked to kidnapping, extortion, narcotics, cash-in-transit, vehicle and truck hijackings.</p> <p>Overall the SAPS continues to respond decisively to crimes linked to critical infrastructure, commercial crimes, stock theft, illegal mining and illicit cigarettes and theft as well as hijacking and smuggling of motor vehicles.</p> <p>It is clear the major shake-up and change of management in the Crime Intelligence unit is starting to yield very positive results.</p> <p>The Crime intellignce division now has a tighter grip and is providing crucial information that is assisting everyday policing.</p> <p>It is not a sole mission but rather team work that is resulting in the interception and prevention of serious and violent crimes BEFORE they take place.</p> <p>Let me put it on the record that the Intelligence community is gaining back its might and its bite.</p> <p>The CI unit under the leadership of Lt General Khumalo enjoys the full support of the Ministry and SAPS management.</p> <p>It should continue to conduct its work without fear or favour for the benefit of all South Africans.</p> <p>Crime Intelliegence division, the job before you is not an easy one but it is certainly very possible to close those taps and leakages in your unit and clean out the rot that is stifling progress.</p> <p>Members of the Media,</p> <p>It is with concern that as we note these successes, on the eve of this press briefing, we see media reports and commentary by some academics that seek to discredit the positive work of the Crime Intelligence unit.</p> <p>It is no coincidence and it remains a low blow to recycle old and fabricated stories in order to try and shift the focus of the good work achieved by this unit;</p> <p>A unit that was previously and deliberately hollowed out and rendered useless at some point in the history of this organisation.</p> <p>We view such as mere attempts to try and derail the work of the police and we want to be clear that such experiments – for whatever reasons; will not deter us.</p> <p>As the SAPS we know where we are going and we also know that if criminals are dealt a blow, there will always be resistance.</p> <p>Any opposition to change within Crime Intelligence, that is underway to bolster its work, remains unfortunate;  BUT we remain more determined to fix the unit and capacitate the police service in its entirety.</p> <p>The Criminal Block that I referred to earlier in my statement, is part of this resistance againts the police and policing work, especially that of Crime Intelligence.</p> <p>Whatever the motive may be, the SAPS remains unshaken and focused.</p> <p>We know that elements againts change are using some individuals, in society, academia, media and within the police service to push back on the policing work; Again we are NOT moved and we remain focused.</p> <p>The FACT is, the SAPS is more coordinated and working closer with communities to dismantle syndicates or individuals who choose the life of crime.</p> <p>As I conclude,</p> <p>Police through their aggressive approach to crime have fired a warning shot; to ALL elements of criminality and those who support crime.</p> <p>We are clear that South Africa is not and will never be, a haven for criminals or organized crimes.</p> <p>The long arm of the law will not be selective nor will it be kind.</p> <p>The National Joints Operational and Intelligence structure continues to bolster our efforts and ensuring the security cluster grows stronger than before.</p> <p>I want to thank communities who continue to support the work of the police through providing valuable information to the SAPS, to assist in police investigations and those who bring forward information that assists the overall intelligence community.</p> <p> Indeed “Iphoyisa YiPhoyisa NgoMphakathi” I thank you.</p> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-issued-by-source field--type-entity-reference field--label-inline clearfix"> <div class="field__label">Issued by</div> <div class="field__item"><div> <div class="field field--name-field-website-url field--type-link field--label-hidden field__item"><a href="https://www.saps.gov.za/" target="_blank">South African Police Service</a></div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-department field--type-entity-reference field--label-inline clearfix"> <div class="field__label">More from</div> <div class="field__item"><a href="https://www.gov.za/taxonomy/term/922" hreflang="en">South African Police Service</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-gcis-speech-subjects field--type-entity-reference field--label-inline clearfix"> <div class="field__label">More on</div> <div class="field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="https://www.gov.za/taxonomy/term/714" hreflang="en">Fighting crime</a></div> </div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-gcis-speech-category field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__item"><a href="https://www.gov.za/speech-categories/speeches" hreflang="en">Speeches</a></div> Tue, 26 Sep 2023 10:22:48 +0000 Vuyelwa 823887 at https://www.gov.za https://www.gov.za/news/speeches/minister-bheki-cele-briefing-saps-successes-26-sep-2023#comments Minister Bheki Cele: Police, IPID and Civilian Secretariat for Police Service Dept Budget Vote 2023/24 https://www.gov.za/news/speeches/minister-bheki-cele-police-ipid-and-civilian-secretariat-police-service-dept-budget-0 <span> Minister Bheki Cele: Police, IPID and Civilian Secretariat for Police Service Dept Budget Vote 2023/24</span> <span><span>Londekile</span></span> <span>Fri, 05/26/2023 - 10:02</span> <div class="field field--name-field-gcis-speech-date field--type-datetime field--label-hidden field__item"><time datetime="2023-05-23T12:00:00Z">23 May 2023</time></div> <div class="field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><h3>Budget Vote 28, 24 & 21 presentation to the National Assembly by the Department Of Police, IPID and the Department of the Civilian Secretariat for Police Service; delivered by the Minister of Police, General Bheki Cele (MP) on Tuesday 23 May 2023</h3> <p>Honourable Chairperson;<br />Honourable Ministers;<br />Honourable Deputy Ministers;<br />Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Police; Ms Tina Joemat - Peterson and members of the Portfolio Committee; <br />Honourable MECs; <br />Members of Parliament; <br />National Commissioner of the SAPS, General Fannie Masemola; <br />National Head of DPCI, Dr Adv Lt General Godfrey Lebeya <br />Acting Secretary of Police, Mr Takalani Ramaru; <br />Executive Director of IPID, Ms Dikeledi Ntlatseng; <br />PSiRA CEO Mr Manabela Chauke; <br />The leadership of organized labour; <br />Ministry of Police; <br />Ladies and gentlemen.<br /> <br /><em>Sanibonani, Dumelang, Molweni, Ndimadekwana, Avuxeni, </em>Good Afternoon. <br /> <br />Honourable Members, Today I present to this august house, the Policing Budget of the Republic of South Africa; that responds decisively to the ongoing outcry and complaints from fellow South Africans on the State of Crime in our country. <br /><br />Today our budget presentation simply says - WE HAVE HEARD YOUR CRY - Therefore going forward our policing direction is continuing to respond decisively and vigorously to our constitutional mandate as outlined in Section 205: <br /><br />“To prevent, combat and investigate crime, maintain public order, protect and secure the inhabitants of the Republic and their property, and to uphold and enforce the law”. <br /><br />Hence our theme this year says “Combating Crime through Decisive Police Action and Robust Community involvement”<br /><br />Honourable Chairperson this is being achieved through the following 10 policing commands.<br /><br />1. Increased Crime Prevention and Combatting Action Plan <br />2. Community Mobilisation and the Resourcing of the CPFS <br />3. Saps Recruitment and Expansion Interventions <br />4. Capacitation of Detectives, DPCI and other Specialised Operational Units <br />5. Gender Based Violence and Femicide and Improvements of the DNA Processing            <br />6. Wellness, Discipline and Improved Police Morale <br />7. Enhanced Policing Technology and 4IR<br />8. Police Visibility, Mobility and Rapid Response<br />9. Building Of Police Stations<br />10. The Whole of Government and Whole of Society Approach in the Fight against Crime <br /> <br /><strong>1. Increased Crime Prevention and Combating Action Plan </strong><br /><br />Honourable Members, <br />Crime Prevention and Combating are being immensely increased during this financial year going forward. <br /><br />The SAPS management have adopted a vigorous action plan that’s ensuring the Streets and Highways of this country are saturated with ongoing weekly High Density Operations.<br /><br />These operations will sweep the streets and sanitise communities from criminality.<br /><br />Chairperson, The SAPS has unleashed a Nationwide disruptive armed intervetions called “OPERATION SHANELA”<br /><br />This includes intelligence led disruptive operations, tracking and tracing of wanted suspects as well as the removal of illegal firearms.<br /><br />This approach is being intensified over weekends as directed by the Crime trends and recording thereof. <br /><br /><em>Sihlalo, Yebo sicela umphakathi ubambisane namaphoyisa, ukuSHANELA bonke ubungebengu obuhlasele umzansi Afrika.</em><br /><br />Provincial Commissioners ARE leading from the front, station commanders ARE leading from the front; and the National Management ARE joining forces on the ground.<br /><br />This year we say, Action! Action! Action! <br /><br />SHANELA Phoyisa!<br /><br />SHANELA Mphakathi!<br /><br />Phezu kwazo izigebengu Maphoyisa!<br /><br />Let us ALL sweep away criminality by Combating crime through Decisive Police Action and Robust Community involvement.<br /><br />In this regard, weekly meetings led by the executive are running concurrently to monitor progress of these operations and provide support and leadership to ensure that we respond accordingly to the outcry by the fellow citizens of this country. </p> <ul><li>Provinces with the highest incidence of reported crime, have been prioritized in terms of the allocation of baseline budgets.This also ensures the prioritization and resourcing of the top 30 high contact crime stations in the country. An additional amount of R65 million is allocated to the provinces.</li> <li>The strengthening and capacitation of Tactical Response Teams (TRT) at high crime stations are being prioritised with the objective of policing high-crime areas and providing a rapid response capability to local crime fighting capabilities.</li> <li>The intervetion of the TRT at local level, has been demanded by communities and the SAPS is responding accordingly with a thousand members being trained.</li> <li>Specialised tracking teams are enhanced and members trained further at provincial and district level to effectively track and apprehend offenders.</li> <li>The SAPS adopted the National Policing Strategy (NPS) in 2022–2023 in an effort to combat the country's identified crime threats. This includes threats to the authority of the state, territorial integrity, the economy, and the well-being of South Africans.</li> <li>Specific emphasis is placed on the stabilisation of crime in identified high-crime areas, tackling murders, police murders, corruption, extortion, kidnapping, illegal mining, illicit economy, economic sabotage and damage to critical infrastructure.  </li> <li>Part of the Combating pillar of the action plan is the reduction of Murder and attempted murder. The proliferation of firearms in the country remains a challenge, hence the response plan is aimed at addressing the challenges within the Central Firearms Registry and tracing illegal firearms. </li> <li>The police are finalising a plan to tighten its internal controls and electronically tag all state issued arms.</li> <li> R20 million is allocated in addition for activities regarding firearm licensing, compliance and enforcement of the Firearms Control Act.</li> </ul><p>At the beginning of the 2022/2023 financial year, there were 74 633 applications for firearm licences that had been carried over from the 2021/2022 financial year. <br /><br />The backlog of new firearm licensing applications decreased by 88.41% from 74 633 in the fourth quarter of the 2021/2022 fiscal year to 8,646 in the fourth quarter of the 2022/2023 fiscal year.<br /><br />Over the current Medium Term Expenditure Framework period (2023/24, 2024/25 and 2025/26 financial years), the SAPS total expenditure is expected to increase at an average annual rate of 3,9%.<br /><br />This is from R102.6 billion in the 2022/23 financial year to R114,9 billion in the 2025/26 financial year.<br /><br />This is mainly due to the allocation of additional funding of R5,8 billion over the MTEF period to fund the carry through costs of the previous year’s salary adjustments. R7, 8 billion for strengthening capacity at police stations. <br /><br />This funding also provides for costs associated with training, operational equipment, and the payment of monthly stipends to trainees and their salaries once they are absorbed.<br /><br />The Private Security Industry Regulatory Authority (PSiRA) has ushered in various rigorous and robust enforcement compliance strategies, this includes the promotion of better firearms management by security companies. There is no doubt, this reduces the proliferation of firearms in line with the Africa Agenda 2063 to reduce the flow of guns in Africa. </p> <ul><li>PSiRA has established a Firearm Enforcement Unit responsible for investigating cases of non-compliance with the PSiRA Act and Firearm Control Act within the private security industry. </li> <li>To this effect, PSiRA seeks to enforce compliance of all withdrawn or liquidated security companies licensed to possess firearms.</li> </ul><p> <br /><strong>2. Community mobilisation and the resourcing of CPF</strong><br /> <br />In realising the theme for this year of “Combating Crime through Decisive Police Action and Robust Community involvement” <br /><br />Policing Communities and Policing WITH Communities, remains the backbone of our policing direction going forward.<br /><br />We therefore call upon communities to embrace and throw their full weight behind the police, to turn the tide of crime and create safer communities. <br /><br />Honourable chairperson, to this end, R70 million is allocated to the provinces to support Community Police Forums in terms of resource requirements.<br /><br />This funding is assisting the CPFs with resources such as vehicles, laptops, torches, reflective jackets and other tools of trade. <br /><br />In addition to the above, R5 million is also provided for community interaction in terms of Izimbizo, awareness campaigns, summits and conferences.<br /><br />In this regard, the Police have concluded a three-day CPF Policing Indaba hosted in Pretoria last week, where a significant way forward and program of action was adopted to strengthen community participation in the fight againt crime.<br /> <br /><strong>3. SAPS recruitment and expansion interventions </strong><br /> <br />Honourable Members, During the 2022 MTEF budget, additional funding of R 5,7 billion was allocated to SAPS that allowed the Department to enlist 12 000 employees to maintain the staff establishment at 179 502 employees in total. <br /><br />A total of 10 000 police trainees have been enlisted in the 2023/24 financial year with the additional funds allocated in the previous and current budget allocation to SAPS. A total of 10 000 police trainees will be recruited annually for the next two financial years which will bring a total of 30 000 new police recruits in the MTSF period.<br /><br />We are calling on all South Africans from all walks of life to join the SAPS. The Police service remains an organisationcof choice for all South Africans, regardless of colour race or creed.<br /> <br /><strong>4. Capacitation of Detectives, DPCI and other specialised operational units</strong><br /> <br />Chairperson, the Detective environment remains critical in the investigation of crime and overall improvement within the Criminal Justice System of this country.<br /><br />In this regard the action plan rigorously addresses the state of the Detectives to improve the detection rate and finalisation of the caseload per detective at station level.<br /><br />This includes a progressive retention and promotional strategy in this regard. <br /><br />A significant portion of more than 20% of the overall police budget is allocated to the detective services. While, 28.8% or 2 880 of the 10 000 new police trainees are intended to capacitate detective services in SAPS.<br /><br />To further boost the investigative capacity of the SAPS, the police management is re-enlisting and inviting back experienced members of the service in good standing, who can contribute to the detective service, following the necessary three months training.<br /><br />Capacitation of Crime Intelligence remains a priority; while the strengthening of functionalities pertaining to cybercrime and specialised multi-disciplinary units, are equally prioritised.  <br /><br />In our efforts to continue with the implementation of the Farlam Commission recommendation tabled, funding has been set aside to continue to capacitate the existing Public Order Policing units (POP).<br /><br />To date, an additional 4000 POP members have been trained and deployed to various provinces, to address crowd management.<br /><br />Honourable members, the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI) baseline allocation is sustained during this financial year. <br /><br />Strengthening the capacity of the DPCI continues to yield positive results in the investigation of high profile cases. <br /><br />Currently, there are initiatives to address the deficiencies that were identified by the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) that are aimed at accelerating the implementation of FATF standards and methodologies within SAPS. <br /><br />The FATF recommendations place emphasis on attending to money laundering and terror financing. The DPCI in consultation with key role players which are;</p> <ul><li>National Prosecuting Authority (NPA),</li> <li>Financial Intelligence Centre (FIC), and</li> <li>State Security Agency (SSA), have compiled an action plan for implementation in the first quarter of 2023/2024 to deal with the recommendations of FATF.  <br /> </li> </ul><p>Meanwhile, The DPCI have 51 case dockets and Enquiries on hand from which 26 arrests relating to the State Capture were effected.<br /><br />While the cases emanating from July unrest have not yet been concluded in court, 65 accused are being considered for additional charge of Terrorism.<br /><br />The DPCI is working with detectives, Crime Intelligence and the National Prosecuting Authority to bring the cases to their logical conclusion.<br /><br />Moreover, of the 149 Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) cases investigated by contracted former police officers.<br /><br />81 inquests have been enrolled while 15 dockets have been sent to the NPA for decision, three criminal cases are in court and the rest have been finalised.<br /><br />The Hawks’ National Head Office established a National Clean Audit Task Team (NCATT) to specifically deal with fraud, corruption, money laundering, and contraventions of the Municipal Finance Management Act 56 of 2003, in identified municipalities. <br /><br />During the investigations, more that R54 million of asset restraint and recoveries have been effected with a total of 81 individuals and a total of nine entities arrested in provinces. <br /><br />Chairperson, The Hawks continues to make serious inroads in dismantling of drug syndicates. To this end, the Serious Organised Crime Investigation registered 20 projects which saw 27 drug laboratories discovered and dismantled and 45 individuals arrested. They also registered five projects to deal with illegal mining where property worth R13 million was preserved. <br /><br />In the last financial year, the Hawks arrested 339 suspects for precious metals and diamonds. They also secured convictions on 92 accused persons. As an example, I shall reflect on the following three cases:<br /> <br /><strong>Twenty one (21) illegal miners arrested </strong><br /> <br />In October 2022 at a mine shaft in Stilfontein. <br />15 AK47s, 6 hunting rifles, shotguns and an R5 rifle, thousands of ammunition, explosives and cash were seized. The accused are appearing in court again on 31 May 2023.<br /><br /><strong>Eighty seven (87) illegal miners sentenced –</strong><br /> <br />During the operation in Orkney, a shoot-out between the police and the illegal miners ensued, resulting in six illegal miners being fatally wounded and eight injured. <br />All the accused remained in custody since their arrest. In March 2023, they were sentenced to a six hundred and ninety six (696) years imprisonment by the Stilfontein Regional Court.</p> <p><strong>Kingpins arrested for illegal mining activities, </strong><br />In Khutsong and Carltonville, Gauteng, The seven suspects alleged to have been buying gold bearing materials from the Zama Zamas, process it and sell it to the next level in the hierarchy. The case is still at court.<br /> <br /><strong>5. Gender Based Violence and Femicide and improvements in the DNA processing</strong><br /> <br />Honourable members, the status of the historic DNA backlog was at 241 152 cases in the first quarter of the 2021/2022 financial year.<br /><br />As of today the DNA backlog is at 636 which is a reduction of 99.70%. <br /><br />The Biology environment of the SAPS received and registered 398 439 new case exhibits and finalised 525 538 case exhibits during the 2022/23 financial year. <br /><br />The finalisation rate has increased progressively from 21% in the 2021/22 financial year to over 131% at the end of the 2022/23 financial year. <br /><br />The SAPS is also implementing similar measures and turnaround strategies to tackle delays in processing of Ballistic and Chemistry samples.<br /><br />Since the establishment of the project, in conjunction with the NPA in July 2021, a total of 31 259 Gender Based Violence and Femicide related court ready cases have been successfully enrolled. <br /><br />In order to further increase SAPS’ forensic investigation footprint, in the country, a newly refurbished and expanded Forensic Laboratory is to be opened by his Excellency, President Cyril Ramaphosa in Gqeberha soon.<br /><br />The investigtaive footprint is resulting in the revamping of the Forensic Laboratory to a world class lab in the KwaZulu-Natal province.<br /><br />An action plan has been developed that aims to respond to crimes related to GBVF, vulnerable groups and sexual offences. This plan also focuses on the resourcing of FCS units, both at national and provincial level with a total of R1,3 billion for both proactive and reactive responses to these crimes;<br /><br />An additional amount of R100 million is allocated to provinces, for prioritization of GBVF response and the strengthening of FCS units.<br /> <br /><strong>6. Wellness discipline and improved police morale </strong><br /> <br />Honourable members, Improving the police service through skills development is being prioritised. <br /><br />The Department is putting in place a number of interventions in addition to the annual cost-of-living adjustment to enhance the working conditions for employees. <br /><br />Employees are having the chance to advance in their careers and increase their earning potential, thanks to promotions and grade progression. <br /><br />To enhance the overall compensation package for the impacted employees, allowances in particular environments are also reviewed.<br /><br />The multi-year SSSBC agreement signed with organised labour in 2018 on the backlog of employees to qualify for grade progression, was honoured and concluded in 2022. <br /><br />Since then, more than 58 000 employees; Constable, Sergeant and Warrant Officer levels were promoted in terms of this grade progression process.<br /><br />SAPS has reprioritised funding and human resource activities in order to fund an increase in the service allowance. <br /><br />The SAPS service allowance has therefore increased from R400 per month to R700 per month.<br /><br />Honourable Members, this increase is a major shift from the service allowance which had remained unchanged since the dawn of democracy.<br /><br />Now more funding is prioritised from the current baselineand this will be reviewed on a regular basis in consultation with labour.<br /><br />Furthermore, Discipline remains crucial in maintaining the decorum, founding principles and values of policing, that is entrenched in the discipline regulations and the Code of Conduct.<br /><br />The SAPS officers involved in corruption are subjected to enhanced disciplinary measures to ensure that they are held accountable for their actions and to prevent any further corruption within the SAPS. <br /><br />In order to effectively manage disciplinary processes, awareness-raising measures are put into place and specialised disciplinary units are established at the national and provincial levels.<br /><br />Honourable Members, in advancing efforts of institutionalising discipline in the police - equally, the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) remains a significant oversight body as mandated by Section 206 (6) of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa. <br /><br />The existence of IPID aims to ensure that the police execute their mandate within the ambits of the law. The IPID continues to operate independently while ensuring that their approach in executing their mandate, is corrective and not punitive. <br /><br />The amendment of the IPID Act is underway and the Civilian Secretariat for Police Service (CSPS) led by the Ministry, ensures that the process of the passing of the Act is concluded before the end of the 6th administration. <br /><br />Meanwhile, consequence management is implemented decisively to managers that are not fit for purpose.<br /><br />We call on the National Commissioner to be firm and decisive on senior police members and officers at all levels, who are compromising and undermining concerted efforts to fight crime.<br /><br />This includes the weakest links in the service delivery value chain, at all levels. <br /> <br /><strong>7. Enhanced policing technology and 4IR</strong><br /> <br />The SAPS continues to invest in the acquisition of appropriate technology for the use in crime prevention, criminal investigation and intelligence. <br /><br />This includes the purchase of unmanned aerial vehicles (drones) and body-worn camerasnas well as Shot Spotters in high density crime areas.<br /><br />To date, the SAPS is training more officers to be licensed to fly drones and including the recruitment of pilot interns, to fully capacitate the environment.  <br /><br />Honourable members - allow me to take this opportunity and thank Parliament for passing the relevant legislation on the usage of Interception and surveillance devices that have been gazzetted.<br /><br />Private Sector Partnerships aimed at improving policing is also being intensified as part of the response plan to prevent and combat crime. The existing collaboration in other provinces is yielding positive results. <br /><br />Chairperson, Police Stations remain our critical point of service delivery and therefore improvements in this area is being prioritised. In this regard, we are pleased to announce the new innovation championed by SAPS Western Cape called ‘RATE OUR SERVICE’<br /><br />This initiative is being rolled out nationally during this financial year. Going forward we want to hear about your experience at police stations through a digital client satisfaction survey, ‘Rate our Service’.<br /><br />The results from the survey are to be used to enhance service delivery and to ensure that the public receives the best possible experience at our police stations.      <br /><br />Additionlly, R25 million is also allocated to the provinces for the enhancements to safeguard police stations. <br /><br />We call on police to be more vigilant as police attacks and killings are on the increase. We also urge communities to support police safety initiatives.<br /> <br /><strong>8. Police visibility, mobility and rapid response </strong><br /> <br />Chairperson, Departmental spending over the medium term is in relation to the core programmes with Visible Policing consisting of more than 51% of the total Vote in 2023/24. <br /><br />The SAPS has been allocated more than R1,8 billion for the procurement of transport assets, such as vehicles, trucks, buses, depending on the availability in the market.<br /><br />Meanwhile, another area to contribute to improved service delivery is the Rapid Response capacity and accessibility of policing services. <br /><br />To address this challenge the Capacitation of frontline services also includes bolstering operations at 10111 call centres. <br /><br />During the State of Nation Address, on 10 February 2023, His Excellency, President Cyril Ramaphosa, issued a call to action noting that we use our competitiveness in Call Centre operations to support the proper functioning of the 10111 Command Centres, partnering with the private sector.” <br /><br />The South African Police Service (SAPS) has therefore, through the announcement of the President, engaged with the Office of the Presidency to explore the opportunities that Operation Vulindlela can provide, in addressing some of the implementation reforms.<br /><br />Developing appropriate solutions requires a multi-stakeholder approach, therefore a team, consisting of officials from Operation Vulindlela, the SAPS, and Business Process Enabling South Africa (BPESA), are in the process of addressing the challenges regarding the 10111 Command Centres.<br /><br />A proposal has already been approved, which consists of three phases and work is already underway to improve the functioning of the 10111 command centres.</p> <ul><li>Phase 1- Diagnostic -Assess the extent of IT system challenges, and prescribe world class solutions to addressing them</li> <li>Phase 2- Planning- Approve and  plan for implementing recommendations made in the diagnostic</li> <li>Phase 3 - Implementation -Roll out approved plan and monitor its execution.</li> </ul><p><br />SAPS has prioritised the 10111 centres and capacitating the centres with 98 supervisory posts that were advertised and filled on 1 June 2022  and by directing 535 of the 10 000 new police trainees to this function.<br /><br />In order to enhance effectiveness of the SAPS garages, the function has been decentralised to provinces to ensure management and interventions on local level and not from a national level. <br /><br />This can ensure a quick turn around time in the fixing of police vehicles, that contribute effectively towards police visibility; with more vehicles on patrol. <br /> <br /><strong>9. Building of police stations</strong><br /> <br />More than R1 billion is allocated for the construction and upgrading of police stations. In addition to that, R30 million is allocated for the procurement and conversion of vehicles to ensure that more mobile Community Service Centres are available to the community. <br />Malunga ahloniphekile ephalamende.<br />During this financial year, we aim to embark on a programme of handing over to communities; the newly built police stations in the following areas: <br />1. Moeka Vuma - North West<br />2. Mabeskraal - North West<br />3. Zeerust - North West<br />4. Chatty - Eastern Cape<br />5. Qhasa - Eastern Cape<br />6. Osuthu - KwaZulu - Natal<br />7. Gamalakhe - KwaZulu - Natal<br />8. Donnybrook - KwaZulu - Natal<br />9. Melmoth - KwaZulu - Natal<br />10. Sawoti - KwaZulu - Natal<br />11. Emanguzi - KwaZulu - Natal<br />12. Mphephu (Dzanani) - Limpopo<br />13. Reimvasmaak - Northern Cape<br />Sihlalo, Sibuyisela okwabantu kubantu … <br /> <br /><strong>10. The whole of government and whole of society approach in the fight against crime </strong><br /> <br />Honourable members - Fighting crime must be intensified through government cluster work, facilitating legislative reform to strengthen law and order.<br /><br />This speaks to the “Whole of government and whole of society” approach to crime and violence prevention in the country; as championed by the Civilian Secretariat for Police Service. <br /><br />The Cabinet-approved Integrated Crime and Violence Prevention Strategy (ICVPS) continues to play a fundamental role in directing our efforts in this regard.<br /><br />The strategy rests on 6 pillars:<br />1. Effective Criminal Justice System.<br />2. Early Intervention<br />3. Victim support<br />4. Effective and intergrated service delivery for safety security and violence prevention<br />5. Safety through environmental design<br />6. Active public and community participation.<br /><br />To this end, we call upon national, provincial and local governments to address the needs of the citizens of this country.<br /><br />Fix the potholes, build habitable human settlements, provide water, electricity and sanitation.<br /><br />Invest in proper environmental design and let us work together with our communities In Combating Crime through Decisive Police Action and Robust Community involvement” <br /><br />The National Development Plan, Vision 2030, sets out a vision for safer communities, recognising the need to address the drivers of crime and violence, such as alcohol, illegal firearms, drugs and gangsterism - and acknowledging that crime and violence prevention is not the sole responsibility of the SAPS. <br /><br />This multidisciplinary approach must involve all sectors of society, including, inter alia, key business industries, such as, the banking, transportation and consumer goods industries, led by an effective Criminal Justice System, which must deliver quality and professional services in an integrated, coordinated, effective and efficient manner.<br /><br />Chairperson,<br /><br />I present to you the South African Police Service Budget Vote 28 for the financial year 2023/24 to the amount of R102, 137 billion;<br /><br />The Independent Police Investigative Directorate Budget Vote 24 to the amount of R357 million<br /><br />The Department of the Civilian Secretariat for Police Service Budget Vote 21 to the amount of R 150, 489 million.<br /> <br /><strong>Conclusion</strong><br /> <br />Lastly, may I take this opportunity to thank the Deputy Minister of Police Mr Cassel Mathale, Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Police, Ms Tina Joemat-Peterson and members of the Portfolio Committee, the National Commissioner of the SAPS General Fannie Masemola, his management team and all SAPS members, the Ministry of Police – Chief of Staff Ms Nonkululeko Phokane and her team, Acting Secretary of Police Mr Takalani Ramaru and his team.<br /><br />The Executive Director of IPID Ms Dikeledi Ntlatseng and her team, the CEO of PSIRA Mr Manabela Chauke and his team, the National Head of DPCI Dr/ Lt General Godfrey Lebeya and his team, The Acting Chairperson of the DNA Board Mr Raymond Sono and the team, the Chairperson of the Firearms Appeals Board Ms Lungelo Shandu and her team and most importantly, my lovely wife Mrs Thembeka Cele and our family for the unwavering support in executing my duties in this portfolio.<br /> <br />I thank you.</p> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-issued-by-source field--type-entity-reference field--label-inline clearfix"> <div class="field__label">Issued by</div> <div class="field__item"><div> <div class="field field--name-field-website-url field--type-link field--label-hidden field__item"><a href="https://www.saps.gov.za/" target="_blank">South African Police Service</a></div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-department field--type-entity-reference field--label-inline clearfix"> <div class="field__label">More from</div> <div class="field__item"><a href="https://www.gov.za/taxonomy/term/922" hreflang="en">South African Police Service</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-gcis-speech-subjects field--type-entity-reference field--label-inline clearfix"> <div class="field__label">More on</div> <div class="field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="https://www.gov.za/taxonomy/term/684" hreflang="en">Budget: national</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="https://www.gov.za/taxonomy/term/667" hreflang="en">Safety and security</a></div> </div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-gcis-speech-category field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__item"><a href="https://www.gov.za/speech-categories/speeches" hreflang="en">Speeches</a></div> Fri, 26 May 2023 08:02:07 +0000 Londekile 821066 at https://www.gov.za https://www.gov.za/news/speeches/minister-bheki-cele-police-ipid-and-civilian-secretariat-police-service-dept-budget-0#comments Minister Bheki Cele: Release of crime statistics for first quarter of 2020/21 https://www.gov.za/news/speeches/minister-bheki-cele-release-crime-statistics-first-quarter-202021-14-aug-2020 <span> Minister Bheki Cele: Release of crime statistics for first quarter of 2020/21</span> <span><span>Vuyelwa</span></span> <span>Fri, 08/14/2020 - 14:48</span> <div class="field field--name-field-gcis-speech-date field--type-datetime field--label-hidden field__item"><time datetime="2020-08-14T12:00:00Z">14 Aug 2020</time></div> <div class="field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><h3>Speaking notes delivered by Police Minister General Bheki Cele (MP) at the occasion of the release of the quarter one crime statistics 2020/2021 hosted in Pretoria, Gauteng</h3> <p>Deputy Minister of Police, Hon Cassel Mathale;<br />All MEC’s in virtual attendance;<br />National Commissioner of the SAPS General Kehla Sitole;<br />Deputy National Commissioners;<br />Provincial Commissioners and Divisional Commissioners;<br />The Statistician General Mr Risenga Maluleke;<br />The Secretary Police Mr Alvin Rapea;<br />The CEO of PSIRA Mr Sam Chauke;<br />Senior Officers;<br />Heads of Entities;<br />All Heads of Department;<br />Members of the Media</p> <p>A very good Afternoon to you all.</p> <p>True to our promise and in line with fulfilling a Cabinet resolution to release the Crime Statistics every quarter. I address the nation to present the Crime Statistics for the first quarter of 2020/2021 financial year.</p> <p>Allow me to start by, recognising and acknowledging all the dedicated officers of the South African Police Service who continue to serve and protect as the country battles the World’s fifth largest COVID-19 outbreak.</p> <p>Many of you officers have fulfilled your constitutional obligations in the face of adversity and uncertainty, all the officers in blue who have and continue to maintain high police visibility. I want to commend you for executing your responsibility to serve and protect with excellence.</p> <p>Maintaining high-density visibility during a pandemic has come at a high cost. Despite our best efforts to keep the virus at bay by wearing protective equipment, sanitizing our hands, vehicles and work stations and by maintaining social distancing while enforcing the law, over 14 thousand (14182) of our members tested positive for COVID-19. Majority of these infections occurred when the officers were in the front lines.</p> <p>Let me take this opportunity to also extend my heartfelt condolences to the officers in blue who have lost their fight against the deadly pandemic. A total of 163 of our members have died from the virus while over 9 thousand (9563) have recovered. There's no doubt these infections occurred in the frontlines.</p> <p><strong>Covid 19 and policing</strong></p> <p>When COVID-19 reached our shores in March 2020, his Excellency President Cyril Ramaphosa addressed the nation and announced the national lockdown. The country was put under strict orders to STAY AT HOME!  Businesses, mines, factories, bars, casinos, beauty salons, sporting codes, nightclubs, game parks, hotels, car washes, restaurants, shebeens and taverns, shut down. Churches and schools were not spared either.  </p> <p>It was also at this time that members of the SANDF were deployed in our communities together with members of the SAPS and other law enforcement agencies in ensuring safety of South Africans and adherence to the Lockdown regulations in all corners of the country.</p> <p>Together, they manned roadblocks, stopped and searched vehicles and maintained law and order whilst ensuring compliance of the new rules. These include operations such as Okae Molao, Swara Tsotsi and Buya Mthetho and Operation Thunderstorm in Gauteng Limpopo and in the Eastern Cape and Mpumalanga Provinces respectively. </p> <p>Operational interventions continued throughout lockdown and have resulted in the confiscation of millions rand worth of contrabands. They also removed illegal firearms off our streets and recovered stolen property including stock. These operations played a huge role in clamping down on illegal transportation and distribution of banned substances such as alcohol and cigarettes. They also got in the way of organised crime trying to take advantage of the new way of life.</p> <p>To date, 298 252 people have been arrested and charged with contraventions of the Disaster Management Act. </p> <p>181 579 were released on warning to appear before a court.</p> <p>28 337 of those arrested were found guilty of violations ranging from liquor, gathering, transport, business and cross border related offences.</p> <p>The pandemic certainly didn’t change the fact that members of the South African Police Service remained out on the streets to enforce the law when the country stayed indoors. </p> <p>Members of the media, unfortunately criminality didn't take a holiday, this is why officers also continued with investigations, tracking and tracing suspicious activities, clamping down on criminal syndicates and responding to millions of calls of domestic violence and other distress calls by community members.  </p> <p><strong>Lockdown figures</strong></p> <p>The first quarter figures that will be presented here today are from the 1st of April 2020 to the 30th of June 2020. This is the same period when the country was under Lockdown level five, four and also reflects crime that took place in the first month of Lockdown level 3. These statistics show major decreases in all crime categories compared to the same comparative period last year. Indeed, the statistics we will release today, paint a never seen before ‘rosy’ picture of a peaceful South Africa experiencing a “crime holiday”.</p> <p>Ladies and Gentlemen, of course we know that the decreased crime levels were impacted largely by the fact that South Africans heeded the call to STAY AT HOME! And it goes without saying that the conditions for crime to thrive were not normal. There were also more boots on the ground to ensure high police visibility and mass adherence to the Disaster Management Act.</p> <p><strong>Domestic Violence</strong></p> <p>While we can’t claim easy victories, we acknowledge that the circumstances that led to the declining numbers were distorted.</p> <p>But even if distorted, it was a better time in South Africa because MORE LIVES WERE SAVED!</p> <p>These official figures also show a reduction in crimes committed against women and children during stage four and five of the Lockdown. However the low numbers of domestic abuse and sexual offences reported cases could have been due to some women not being able to escape their abusers and could not report crimes committed against them.</p> <p>In this regard, the SAPS will continue to monitor the reporting of such cases and verify whether the reduction was as a result to non-reporting due to the Lockdown. This will be done by comparing the dates of reporting with the dates of which the crime was committed.</p> <p>It is equally important to acknowledge that the unavailability of alcohol also had a role to play. This is evident in the decreased numbers of cases of contact crimes which plummeted by 37.4%.</p> <p>This means there were 53 891 less cases of murder, attempted murder, assault GBH, Common robbery and common assault reported compared to the same reporting period.</p> <p>The drop in crime cases is also demonstrated by a 29.4% decline in Contact-Related Crimes made up of arson and malicious damage to property.</p> <p>During this time, South Africans were also safer in their homes, burglaries at residential premises dropped by over 30% whilst on the other hand Burglary at non-residential premises increased by 9.1%. Worryingly, there has been an increased number of attacks on schools and liquor outlets during this time. </p> <p>2 692 burglaries were reported at educational premises and 1 246 liquor outlets were targeted.</p> <p>A total of 1186 suspects have been arrested for these crimes.</p> <p>There has also been a big drop in the number of sexual offences recording a 39.7% drop on crimes such as rape and sexual assault. A 40.4% decrease in the number of rape cases were reported during the three months.</p> <p>Ladies and Gentlemen, yes indeed the first quarter of the 2020/2021 period was much safer time to live in, in this country.</p> <p>All Top 30 stations that are reporting high levels of Assault with intent to cause GBH too recorded drops in numbers. Common assault numbers declined from April and May while the country was under Level 4 and 5 but the gap started to close on the 1st of June when the country was eased into level 3 of the Lockdown.</p> <p>Ladies and gentlemen, this is also the same time when more people returned to work, some places of leisure reopened and the alcohol ban was lifted.</p> <p>When I released the last annual crime statistics last week, I said the quarterly release of these statistics will allow for timeous intervention measures aimed at crime reduction.</p> <p>There are certainly many lessons to be learnt from these recent figures as the SAPS and how we must channel resources where they are needed most in an effort to sustain these low numbers.</p> <p>But it is also time us as a country start having a frank and open discussion about alcohol and the real effect it has on society. The evidence is clear from these figures that the absence of alcohol leads to safer communities.</p> <p><strong>Conclusion</strong></p> <p>Before I conclude, let me again take this opportunity to commend officers of the SAPS and our armed forces for holding the fort during the rough winds of the pandemic storm.</p> <p>While we have a police service that strives for blue excellence, some within our ranks still choose to operate in darkness and in criminality.</p> <p>163 officers were arrested from the start of Lockdown from violating the very same lockdown regulations they were meant to enforce.</p> <p>Just this week, 12 SAPS officers who disgraced the police uniform, stood before a magistrate in Gauteng.</p> <p>A three-year investigation by the Hawks Serious Corruption Investigation and Crime Intelligence saw Warrant officers, Sergeants and Constables arrested for allegedly stealing millions of rands worth of drugs confiscated from drug mules and other corruption related offences at the OR Tambo International Airport. </p> <p>Let this be a lesson to all those who join the service with ulterior motives, either than to be enforcers of the law. The SAPS is not the place for you and the long arm of the law will catch up with you and show you no mercy. </p> <p>Major General Thulare Sekhukhune will give a Presentation which will reflect an overview of the 2020/2021 Quarter one crime statistics.</p> <table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"><tbody><tr><td> <p>Crime Category </p> </td> <td> <p>Figures </p> </td> </tr><tr><td> <p>Murder </p> </td> <td> <p>- 35.8%</p> </td> </tr><tr><td> <p>Sexual Offences </p> </td> <td> <p>- 39.7%</p> </td> </tr><tr><td> <p>Attempted Murder </p> </td> <td> <p>- 23.8%</p> </td> </tr><tr><td> <p>Assault to do grievous bodily harm</p> </td> <td> <p>- 41.0%</p> </td> </tr><tr><td> <p>Common Assault</p> </td> <td> <p>- 28.2%</p> </td> </tr><tr><td> <p>Common Robbery </p> </td> <td> <p>- 49.8%</p> </td> </tr><tr><td> <p>Robbery with aggravating circumstances</p> </td> <td> <p>- 39.5%</p> </td> </tr></tbody></table><p> </p> <p>All Sexual Offences decreased by 39.7%</p> <table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"><tbody><tr><td> <p>Crime Category </p> </td> <td> <p>Figures</p> </td> </tr><tr><td> <p>Rape</p> </td> <td> <p>- 40.4%</p> </td> </tr><tr><td> <p>Sexual Assault </p> </td> <td> <p>- 35.9%</p> </td> </tr><tr><td> <p>Attempted Sexual Offences</p> </td> <td> <p>- 40.3%</p> </td> </tr><tr><td> <p>Contact Sexual Offences </p> </td> <td> <p>- 36.2%</p> </td> </tr></tbody></table><p> </p> <table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"><tbody><tr><td> <p>Crime Category</p> </td> <td> <p>Figures</p> </td> </tr><tr><td> <p>Carjacking </p> </td> <td> <p>- 41.2%</p> </td> </tr><tr><td> <p>Robbery at Residential Premises</p> </td> <td> <p>- 23.2%</p> </td> </tr><tr><td> <p>Robbery at Non-Residential Premises</p> </td> <td> <p>- 34.5%</p> </td> </tr><tr><td> <p>Robbery of Cash-In-Transit</p> </td> <td> <p>- 50.0%</p> </td> </tr><tr><td> <p>Bank Robbery </p> </td> <td> <p>Zero cases</p> </td> </tr><tr><td> <p>Truck hijacking </p> </td> <td> <p>- 30.0%</p> </td> </tr></tbody></table><p><br /> Contact-Related Crimes decreased by 29.4%</p> <table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"><tbody><tr><td> <p>Crime Categories</p> </td> <td> <p>Figures</p> </td> </tr><tr><td> <p>Arson </p> </td> <td> <p>- 32.9%</p> </td> </tr><tr><td> <p>Malicious damage to property</p> </td> <td> <p>- 29.2%</p> </td> </tr></tbody></table><p> </p> <p>All Property-Related Crimes decreased 29.1%</p> <p>Burglary at non-residential premises increased by 9.1%</p> <p> </p> <table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"><tbody><tr><td> <p>Crime Categories</p> </td> <td> <p>Figures</p> </td> </tr><tr><td> <p>Burglary at non-residential premises</p> </td> <td> <p>+ 9.1%</p> </td> </tr><tr><td> <p>Burglary at residential premises</p> </td> <td> <p>- 30.5%</p> </td> </tr><tr><td> <p>Theft of motor vehicle and motor cycle</p> </td> <td> <p>- 53.0%</p> </td> </tr></tbody></table></div> <div class="field field--name-field-issued-by-source field--type-entity-reference field--label-inline clearfix"> <div class="field__label">Issued by</div> <div class="field__item"><div> <div class="field field--name-field-website-url field--type-link field--label-hidden field__item"><a href="https://www.saps.gov.za/" target="_blank">South African Police Service</a></div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-department field--type-entity-reference field--label-inline clearfix"> <div class="field__label">More from</div> <div class="field__item"><a href="https://www.gov.za/taxonomy/term/922" hreflang="en">South African Police Service</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-gcis-speech-subjects field--type-entity-reference field--label-inline clearfix"> <div class="field__label">More on</div> <div class="field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="https://www.gov.za/taxonomy/term/667" hreflang="en">Safety and security</a></div> </div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-gcis-speech-category field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__item"><a href="https://www.gov.za/speech-categories/speeches" hreflang="en">Speeches</a></div> Fri, 14 Aug 2020 12:48:24 +0000 Vuyelwa 800093 at https://www.gov.za https://www.gov.za/news/speeches/minister-bheki-cele-release-crime-statistics-first-quarter-202021-14-aug-2020#comments Minister Bheki Cele: Zululand chamber of commerce and industry meeting https://www.gov.za/news/speeches/minister-bheki-cele-zululand-chamber-commerce-and-industry-meeting-08-mar-2024 <span> Minister Bheki Cele: Zululand chamber of commerce and industry meeting</span> <span><span>Vuyelwa</span></span> <span>Mon, 03/11/2024 - 10:18</span> <div class="field field--name-field-gcis-speech-date field--type-datetime field--label-hidden field__item"><time datetime="2024-03-08T12:00:00Z">08 Mar 2024</time></div> <div class="field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><h3 style="margin-bottom: 11px;">Speaker notes for Minister of Police General Bheki Cele post meeting with Zululand chamber of commerce and industry in Richards bay </h3> <p>We have concluded a fruitful meeting with the business community of the Zululand Region and we wish to brief you on the outcomes of our morning discussions.</p> <p>There is no doubt the Business sector plays a significant role in the economic development of the region and growth in our communities. </p> <p>Big or small; Businesses create employment opportunities and foster economic growth. </p> <p>At the same time we are well aware that crime, if not responded to accordingly, can have a negative impact on economic growth.</p> <p>I wish to reflect on the genesis of this engagement. </p> <p>On the 23rd of February, His Excellency, President Cyril Rampahosa together with a government delegation met with the Durban Business community to discuss the growth of the KZN economy, through addressing challenges faced by the business community.</p> <p>As the Minister of Police, I was part of the robust and frank discussions that also saw business leaders from the Zululand Region sharply call on the SAPS, to look into safety challenges threatening their lives and adversely affecting their livelihoods.</p> <p>A commitment was then made to meet with the sector in the area and forge a way forward, on how the crime situation can be improved.</p> <p>This morning, the Police Ministry and SAPS management led by National Commissioner, General Fannie Masemola have had honest discussions with the Zululand Chamber of Commerce and Industry led by CEO Hlengiwe Mvubu.</p> <p>Through this morning's discussions, it is abundantly clear the stabilisation of the region and maintaining law and order, must remain high on the agenda.</p> <p>We agree that criminality cannot and will not be tolerated.</p> <p>Such should be dealt a heavy blow through collaboration between business, civil society and law enforcement.</p> <p>Members of the media,</p> <p>As you may know, the SAPS has had its eye on the region for some time.</p> <p>Since 2021,  provincial teams have been set up and stationed in the region to look into the crime situation. </p> <p>This included a stabilisation team that was set up in September 2022 and is still stationed here.</p> <p>These teams have been hard at work investigating criminal syndicates and indivisuals, terrorising business people and their establishments.</p> <p><strong>Case Management  </strong></p> <p>To date the police teams on the ground have investigated 68 dockets.</p> <p>43 accused have since been arrested for charges ranging from murder, attempted murder, theft  trespassing, possession of suspected stolen property, unlawful possession of firearm and ammunition, fraud and intimidation.</p> <p>47 of these cases are before the courts </p> <p><strong>Recoveries</strong> </p> <p>202 firearms have since been taken off the streets in the past three years, through the work of the specialized teams deployed to the region.</p> <p>These include rifles, handguns and over 2 thousand rounds of ammunition.</p> <p>High value of drugs and seven vehicles have so far been recovered during operations, which were stolen and some used for criminal intent.</p> <p>These are some of the successes of the teams that have been deployed in the region in an attempt to bring stability.</p> <p>They demonstrate that the SAPS has not turned its back on the region and all hands are on deck to squash criminality, despite budgetary constraints.</p> <p>The SAPS will continue to investigate ALL crimes and ensure that those who choose illegalities for whatever motive, are brought to book.</p> <p><strong>Conclusion</strong> </p> <p>Ladies and Gentlemen, what is CLEAR,</p> <p>Conducting business is not a crime and it should NOT be a death sentence.</p> <p>Businesses and communities should operate and thrive without fear – and this for us remains a non-negotiable.</p> <p>The stabilization of three municipal districts that fall under the Zululand region remains high on the agenda.</p> <p>Despite the budgetary constraints that have forced the scaling down of operations, this administration has committed ensuring that police continue with their work in the WHOLE region.</p> <p>The national interventions will see more funding made available, to beef up the work of the specialised teams in the region to sweep away criminality.</p> <p>This high-level intervention will translate to extra resources and better policing in identified areas.</p> <p>It will mean policing teams will be stationed here to remove criminal obstacles that may hinder economic growth and threaten the safety of communities.</p> <p>These policing interventions will remain until communities in the Zululand region feel the change and not live nor operate in fear.</p> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-issued-by-source field--type-entity-reference field--label-inline clearfix"> <div class="field__label">Issued by</div> <div class="field__item"><div> <div class="field field--name-field-website-url field--type-link field--label-hidden field__item"><a href="https://www.saps.gov.za/" target="_blank">South African Police Service</a></div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-department field--type-entity-reference field--label-inline clearfix"> <div class="field__label">More from</div> <div class="field__item"><a href="https://www.gov.za/taxonomy/term/922" hreflang="en">South African Police Service</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-gcis-speech-category field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__item"><a href="https://www.gov.za/speech-categories/speeches" hreflang="en">Speeches</a></div> Mon, 11 Mar 2024 08:18:00 +0000 Vuyelwa 827592 at https://www.gov.za https://www.gov.za/news/speeches/minister-bheki-cele-zululand-chamber-commerce-and-industry-meeting-08-mar-2024#comments Minister Fikile Mbalula notes North Gauteng High Court judgement https://www.gov.za/speeches/minister-mbalula-notes-north-gauteng-high-court-judgement-18-may-2017-0000 <span> Minister Fikile Mbalula notes North Gauteng High Court judgement </span> <span><span>Estelle Greeff</span></span> <span>Thu, 05/18/2017 - 15:05</span> <div class="field field--name-field-gcis-speech-date field--type-datetime field--label-hidden field__item"><time datetime="2017-05-18T12:00:00Z">18 May 2017</time></div> <div class="field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><p>The Minister of Police Mr Fikile Mbalula has noted the judgement of the North Gauteng High Court on the case brought against him by the Former Head of the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI), General Berning Hlemeza.</p> <p>General Hlemeza's case was struck off the roll and he was ordered to pay costs of two counsels as matter was not urgent.</p> <p>The Minister reiterates that on the matter regarding General Hlemeza's position at the DPCI he implementing the 17 March 2017 judgement that set aside his appointment. He maintains that as the Minister he has always been right on the interpretation of the Court Order.</p> <p>The effect of today's judgement and that of the 17th of March 2017 means that even if General Ntlemeza decides to appeal further the order stands and is not suspended.</p> <p>The Minister will study the judgement and comment fully at an appropriate stage.</p> <p>Media Enquiries:<br />Vuyo Mhaga<br />Cell: 076 636 5193</p> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-issued-by-source field--type-entity-reference field--label-inline clearfix"> <div class="field__label">Issued by</div> <div class="field__item"><div> <div class="field field--name-field-website-url field--type-link field--label-hidden field__item"><a href="https://www.saps.gov.za/" target="_blank">South African Police Service</a></div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-department field--type-entity-reference field--label-inline clearfix"> <div class="field__label">More from</div> <div class="field__item"><a href="https://www.gov.za/taxonomy/term/922" hreflang="en">South African Police Service</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-gcis-speech-subjects field--type-entity-reference field--label-inline clearfix"> <div class="field__label">More on</div> <div class="field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="https://www.gov.za/taxonomy/term/657" hreflang="en">Legal issues</a></div> </div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-gcis-speech-category field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__item"><a href="https://www.gov.za/speech-categories/media-statements" hreflang="en">Media Statements</a></div> Thu, 18 May 2017 13:05:05 +0000 Estelle Greeff 763258 at https://www.gov.za https://www.gov.za/speeches/minister-mbalula-notes-north-gauteng-high-court-judgement-18-may-2017-0000#comments Minister Fikile Mbalula on Makhosi Khoza close protection https://www.gov.za/speeches/minister-fikile-mbalula-makhosi-khoza-close-protection-20-jul-2017-0000 <span> Minister Fikile Mbalula on Makhosi Khoza close protection</span> <span><span>lebang</span></span> <span>Thu, 07/20/2017 - 08:18</span> <div class="field field--name-field-gcis-speech-date field--type-datetime field--label-hidden field__item"><time datetime="2017-07-20T12:00:00Z">20 Jul 2017</time></div> <div class="field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><p>Minister of Police, honourable Fikile Mbalula MP has taken note of the social media statements attributed on the Facebook account reputedly operated by Honourable Khoza about Minister’s comments and how the Honourable Khoza feels she has been dealt by the department of police, SAPS and the Minister himself.</p> <p>Minister takes the security of elected public representatives and that of all ordinary residents in the republic as a very serious matter – this includes Honourable Khoza.</p> <p>“Our democracy, though stable, still experiences typical challenges that most former oppressed states go through – heightened lawlessness and violence amongst the communities. The proliferation of guns from either statutory or non-statutory forces become one of the hard issues to grapple with.  Our porous borders are also not assisting us.  As Minister I connect these to the scourge of politically motivated assassinations and violence in KwaZulu-Natal in particular – a matter I am seized with. Honourable Khoza’s security threats are therefore serious. This democracy could evaporate in seconds if elected political leaders are constantly harassed, threatened or killed.</p> <p>Our mandate in this regard is therefore to be seen in two; that is the protection of all persons and the protection of our democracy itself.</p> <p>It is in this vein that I, outside of the media glare, as these things should be, have attended to the issues relating to Honourable Khoza and at an operational level have taken it serious and kept check on the cases reported by Honourable Khoza to police.</p> <p>Her matter was immediately transferred to a Commissioned Officer because of its seriousness. An assessment on her security was conducted and this assessment was constantly looked at whilst the criminal threats to her life were investigated. She was not “left alone”, even if she didn’t know about it.</p> <p>As far as threats to her girl child, SAPS investigated this and found that there was no threat at all. This matter was closed.</p> <p>SAPS, also requires that Honourable Khoza avails herself to the investigating officer who continues to battle to get her to a meeting. Honourable Khoza house has also been visited unannounced after SAPS’ frustration with her unavailability to meet them.</p> <p>As is practice, we do not divulge security arrangements of any person who has been approved or not approved to have close protection or other type of security.</p> <p>My office’s calls to Honourable Khoza and even those from myself directly have not yielded the result we had hoped for, as it is at this time she refuses to engage with us directly but through Facebook.</p> <p>We will endeavour to continue reaching out to the Honourable Khoza to put in place what must be put in place for her in accordance with our standard operational procedures as a department.</p> <p>If needs be, should Honourable Khoza refuse our overtures and open hand, we shall look at other ways of assisting her without her involvement should it come to that.</p> <p>As ANC NEC member, I also wish to elaborate on the issue of my utterances about Honourable Khoza’ s decision to defy her party’s strategic political decision over the question of dissolving this current administration in a vote of no confidence. As I stated then, the decisions relating to who defies who or what does not enter in the question of law and order where an individual’s life is under physical threat. Political disagreements must never lead to harm and loss of life or injury.</p> <p>It also goes without saying that a party member who openly decides to defy party instructions or constitution or rules, such a person destroys their party career, they themselves kill such a career. I used the phrase, “suicide bombing her ANC career” in this strict context.</p> <p>I assure South Africans that no matter your race, creed, religion or social strata, where there exist a real threat to life, SAPS will treat the matter very seriously. No political disagreements enter the space of SAPS operations. Honourable Khoza, likewise is being treated that way, with an added burden on our mandate to protect our institutions of democracy and free political will.</p> <p>To reiterate, at this time, SAPS have found that there is no threat to any other reported person in honourable Khoza’ s family. SAPS and my office are reaching out and requesting honourable Khoza to please accept our requests to meet her, share with her what our investigations have found and also deal with issues of her security.</p> <p>It is time for all concerned to pull together and cooperate professionally”</p> <p>Media enquiries:<br />Vuyo Mhaga<br />Cell: 076 6365193<br />Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/SAPoliceService">https://twitter.com/SAPoliceService</a><br />Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/SAPoliceService">https://www.facebook.com/SAPoliceService</a><br />Instagram: <a href="https://instagram.com/sapoliceservice_za/">https://instagram.com/sapoliceservice_za/</a><br />YouTube: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/user/SAPoliceService">https://www.youtube.com/user/SAPoliceService</a></p> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-issued-by-source field--type-entity-reference field--label-inline clearfix"> <div class="field__label">Issued by</div> <div class="field__item"><div> <div class="field field--name-field-website-url field--type-link field--label-hidden field__item"><a href="https://www.saps.gov.za/" target="_blank">South African Police Service</a></div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-department field--type-entity-reference field--label-inline clearfix"> <div class="field__label">More from</div> <div class="field__item"><a href="https://www.gov.za/taxonomy/term/922" hreflang="en">South African Police Service</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-gcis-speech-subjects field--type-entity-reference field--label-inline clearfix"> <div class="field__label">More on</div> <div class="field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="https://www.gov.za/taxonomy/term/714" hreflang="en">Fighting crime</a></div> </div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-gcis-speech-category field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__item"><a href="https://www.gov.za/speech-categories/media-statements" hreflang="en">Media Statements</a></div> Thu, 20 Jul 2017 06:18:47 +0000 lebang 765234 at https://www.gov.za https://www.gov.za/speeches/minister-fikile-mbalula-makhosi-khoza-close-protection-20-jul-2017-0000#comments Minister Nkosinathi Nhleko: Police Dept Budget Vote 2016/17 https://www.gov.za/speeches/minister-nkosinathi-nhleko-police-dept-budget-vote-201617-21-apr-2016-0000 <span> Minister Nkosinathi Nhleko: Police Dept Budget Vote 2016/17</span> <span><span>Vuyelwa</span></span> <span>Thu, 04/21/2016 - 17:08</span> <div class="field field--name-field-gcis-speech-date field--type-datetime field--label-hidden field__item"><time datetime="2016-04-21T12:00:00Z">21 Apr 2016</time></div> <div class="field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><p>THEME: Building a united front to help and protect communities</p> <p>House Chair<br />Honourable members<br />MECs from different provinces<br />The Acting National Commissioner Lt Gen Phahlane and your management team<br />The Head of DPCI Lt General Ntlemeza and your management team<br />The Acting Executive Director of IPID Mr Kgamanyane<br />The Acting Secretariat for Police Mr Rapea<br />The Chairperson of the PSIRA Board Mr Mongwe<br />The Director and Chairperson of the Firearms Appeal Board<br />Members of the South African Police Services<br />Esteemed guests<br />Fellow South Africans</p> <p>Somewhere in the beautiful, vast landscape of KwaMhlabuyalingana, stays a granny, a lone defenseless granny whose only hope for protection, as it seems, lies in her God. She lives with the beautiful memories of her little daughter, who like many others, went to seek her fortunes in the cities. Today, her daughter works as a teacher in Durban eThekwini and resides at the very popular township of KwaMashu. UGogo does have beautiful recollections of her grandchildren, one of whom is a graduate of law and is serving articles at a popular law firm in Sandton, closer to her uncle, uMalume, gogo’s second born son, who himself runs a small business on the busy streets of the theater of a workman’s dreams, Johannesburg.</p> <p>Although this family is scattered in the country, there are two very important threads that continue to bond them together. Firstly, it is their blood. Secondly, and similarly quite importantly, the fact that they are under the care and protection of a government that cares.</p> <p>We also tell a story of how Lucinda Evans and her neighbours in Lavender Hills, Cape Flats always dreaded the onset of the festive season. After all, it is at this time that the gang wars are at their worst; when the already compromised quality of life deteriorates even further. The easy access to alcohol and drugs accentuates the social crimes.</p> <p>December 2015 was no different. Or so they thought. They braced themselves for another unfestive season. But their fears did not materialize. Instead, a different war played out; a war for good.</p> <p>Police patrols took over the streets making it possible for women and children to walk with less trepidation; children, for a change, took full advantage of the glorious summer and played, as children should; with gay abandon. Gangsters were put on notice. Drug dealers and peddlers lost ground. Other criminal elements that looked forward to taking advantage of the season suddenly found themselves having to deal with the law enforcement officers who were out in full force. A sense of tentative peace engulfed the community.</p> <p>In response, Lucinda and her friends turned their efforts at making the lives of the officers on duty easier. They opened their hearts and pooled together their resources to serve warm meals to officers keeping their neighbourhoods safe at night. The community made sure that they gave police all the support they needed for effective policing to happen.  This is the story of a community and their police. </p> <p>This Budget Vote is dedicated to all the Lucindas of the world, the unsung heroes and heroines for playing their part expecting no reward or favour for doing what they believe is right.</p> <p>We are government that heeds the cries and calls for transformation, for safety, and quite simply, for the creation of a more habitable South Africa. A South Africa envisioned by the pioneers of our constitutional democracy which we so value.</p> <p>House Chair, it is simple stories such as these that give us the urge and strength to go head on against the triple challenges of inequality, poverty and unemployment. It is success stories and stories of the pursuit of happiness by ordinary South Africans, living simple lives that propel us dedicate our lives, to invest our time and indeed deeply apply our minds, to create policy and legislative solutions, clear and practical strategies that seek to create a better life for all.</p> <p>In the most recent weeks we have successfully stabilized the Northern Areas of Port Elizabeth, through Operation Lockdown. Communities are beginning to tell us that they are now able to sleep at night without fear.</p> <p>We arrested, in a matter of hours, the murderers who butchered a whole family in Emabheleni, Port Shepstone. Those killers are behind bars as we speak. So are the drug dealers and their acolytes. Drug dealers are caught daily in our airports and ports of entries.</p> <p>These successes are beginning to turn the tide and there is a positive vibe, which is beginning to be felt and affect all our citizens.</p> <p> It is these stories, that continuously rejuvenate our commitment towards realising the National Development Plan, a plan that today has improved the livelihood of many South Africans and those who peacefully live with us. In fact, I agree with Johan Burger of the Institute for Security Studies when he suggests that “the NDP is potentially the most important government policy directive in recent years which if implemented, could see dramatic improvements not only in policing but throughout government.</p> <p> We are convinced that the NDP speaks to the very social moral fibre of our society, what we as Africans call Ubuntu.</p> <p>The NDP besides emphatic recommendations that the SAPS be demilitarised as soon as possible, it also suggests that there be a review on the organisational cultural reform of the police, with a thorough assessment of the effects of militarisation, demilitarisation, and remilitarisation. These recommendations are in fact in line with the notion that one of the most important facets of law enforcement is the treatment of citizens with utmost dignity; indeed in agreement with the great theorist and historian, Michel Foucault in his book Discipline and Punish when he suggests that: “[t]he need for punishment without torture was first formulated as a need to recognize the humanity of the criminal. Man became the legal limit of power, beyond which it (power) could not act.”</p> <p>This immediately reminds me of the Constitutional courts findings in the case of State v Makwanyane, which abolished the death sentence. Here, the learned judge emphasised the importance of the rights to life and dignity, declaring them as the most important of all the rights in the constitution. Even further, the court emphasised, as was put by Justice Ackermann, that “We have moved from a past characterised by much which was arbitrary and unequal in the operation of the law to a present and a future in a constitutional state where state action must be such that it is capable of being analysed and justified rationally.”</p> <p>The learned judge correctly cites the well published Prof. Etienne Mureinik who himself suggests that; "If the new Constitution is a bridge away from a culture of authority, it is clear what it must be a bridge to. It must lead to a culture of justification—a culture in which every exercise of power is expected to be justified.... If the Constitution is to be a bridge in this direction, it is plain that the Bill of Rights must be its chief strut."</p> <p>House Chair, the police have a duty to do not only to fully adhere to the Bill of rights but to also formulate policies that are infused with Constitutionalism and to conduct themselves, in their much sacred duties, in the manner that they showcase nothing less than an embodiment of the spirit of Ubuntu.</p> <p>It is from that premise that our police service continues to make gogo feel safer in the deep rural areas of KwaMhlabuyalingana, that we ensure visible policing, establish specialised crime units to fight crime and create a safer township in Northern Areas of Port Elizabeth and in other places. We present this Budget Vote a lot more optimistic that the future we seek for our children and their children is attainable. Whether it is in the Cape Flats in the Western Cape or Matatiele in the Eastern Cape; whether in Lebowakgomo in Limpopo or Itsoseng in North West; whether it is in Koffiefontein in Free State or Carnavon in the Northern Cape; Ndundwini in KZN or Bushbuckridge in Mpumalanga or even in Orange Farm in Gauteng, we dream of a future where all people in South Africa are and feel safe.</p> <p>House chair, even as we present this Budget Vote, we are emboldened by the positive changes that we are implementing and whose fruits we are seeing in the policing environment. These positive changes include but are not restricted to impressive police work during the past festive season and other significant periods; as well as the turning of the tide for our men and women in blue to a service towards a positive outlook that will in time, infect and affect all our citizens.</p> <p>We continue to diligently ensure that the fellow inhabitants of South Africa are and feel safe. In the process of ensuring the deliverance of our mandate, the saps will continue to derive lessons through experience. We believe such experiences can only help police services to grow but also improve its level of delivery of service to our people.</p> <p>Steven Pinker in Better Angels of Our Future makes the point when he places the nexus, in regard to the very existence of a public service function like ours in the heart of acceptance by communities. In that regard, he asserts that;</p> <p>“The source of the state’s pacifying effect isn’t just its brute coercive power but the trust it commands among the populace. After all, no state can post an informant in every pub and farmhouse to monitor breaches of the law, and those that try are totalitarian dictatorships that rule by fear, not civilized societies where people co-exist through self-control and empathy”.</p> <p>This ANC-led people’s government is not and will not be totalitarian or anything resembling it. For that reason, fellow South Africans, we have begun in all earnest to put the recommendations of the Farlam Commission of Enquiry into action so that our country may begin to heal from one of the darkest periods of our short history. An announcement will be made to the citizenry in due course on the concrete steps and actions towards this work, which will, in the end, result in the meaningful transformation of the police service and its allied institutions.</p> <p>Cabinet has approved, two critical pieces of policy namely; The White Paper on Safety and Security and the White Paper on Policing.</p> <p>The white paper on Safety and Security rests on six pillars, namely:</p> <ul><li>an effective criminal justice system;</li> <li>early intervention to prevent crime and violence and promote safety;</li> <li>victim support;</li> <li>effective integrated service delivery for safety, security and violence and crime preventions;</li> <li>safety through environmental design; and</li> <li>active public and community participation.</li> </ul><p>It focuses on an integrated and developmental approach to safety in view of recognition that safety extends far beyond the purview of just the police. It also seeks to entrench the ideals of the National Development Plan of people living in safe environments with equal access and recourse to high quality of services when affected by crime and violence. More importantly, it talks to preventative action, which will be achieved by the concerted effort of all sectors concerned to address the fundamental causes of crime including roles by departments such as Health, Social Development, Education, the Criminal Justice System and co-operative governance. It is only through cooperation that we can effectively protect our communities.</p> <p>The White Paper on Policing places an emphasis on the core of policing and, provides a framework that will regularise SAPS as part of the broader public service. In that way, we hope to enhance effective civilian oversight over SAPS.</p> <p>The white paper calls for a professional, well-resourced and highly skilled police service; a demilitarised police service in line with the Constitution and ideals of the NDP; Further advocates a community-centred policing with sustained community participation and support; as well as an active eradication of barriers to reporting of sexual abuse and domestic violence.</p> <p>We continue to receive and incorporate significant inputs from various sectors of society, to enable us to truly reflect the views of ordinary citizens and ensuring that the voice of the electorate is truly represented as this work unfolds.</p> <p>Cabinet approved the Critical Infrastructure Protection Bill on 13 April 2016 for public comments. The Bill seeks to repeal the National Key Points Act, 102 of 1980.</p> <p>The Critical Infrastructure Protection Bill (“the Bill”) seeks to bring the legal framework for the protection of critical infrastructure in line with the constitutional imperatives and changing developments within the country. The Bill is aimed at ensuring that South Africa maintains a robust and sustainable approach to the protection of South Africa’s critical infrastructure in the interests of the state and all citizens. We will, in due course, give updates on the progress in this regard.</p> <p>SAPS has embarked on a Back-to Basic approach, which focuses on every member of SAPS reverting to the established regulatory framework, or simply put, doing the basics of policing, properly and consistently.</p> <p>This approach rests on three fundamental pillars:</p> <ul><li>Discipline, and the manner in which police officers conduct themselves, as a distinctive characteristic of policing;</li> <li>Enhanced police visibility, which implies more police officers in uniform, thereby minimising opportunities to commit crime; and</li> <li>The deployment of operational resources to ensure the optimal utilisation of the limited resources that the Police have at their disposal, ensuring that they are applied to maximum effect. </li> </ul><p>In addition, those areas of chronic under-performance are being corrected through specific recovery plans targeting visible policing and detective service capabilities the SAPS.</p> <p>A structure that supports the new ethos has been approved and is being implemented in earnest and we will keep the House updated on a regular basis.</p> <p>The SAPS is allocated a budget of R80.8-billion for the 2016/2017 cycle with spending focus over the medium term on:</p> <ul><li>Addressing the current fixed establishments,</li> <li>Professionalising the police service through skills development,</li> <li>Continued strengthening of the criminal justice system by contributing to the criminal justice sector revamp and modernization programme; and</li> <li>Investing in capital assets consisting of machinery and equipment.</li> <li>Strengthening the resource capability of Public Order Policing Unit. A total of R1,957 billion has been allocated for this purpose.</li> </ul><p>These activities support the JCPS Cluster objective of creating safer communities and contribute towards ensuring that people in South Africa are and feel safe (outcome 3).</p> <p>More specifically it will include:</p> <ul><li>Community Outreach Programmes; Imbizo and Community-based recruitment programmes;</li> <li>Implementation of an Integrated CJS to ensure a single, coordinated management of criminal justice and performance, focusing on funding for Forensic Services and broader Detective Service in SAPS to enhance crime investigations;</li> <li>Provision for equipment and training for detectives to enhance the process of investigation of crime;</li> <li>Policing of major events including the upcoming local government Elections 2016; and          </li> </ul><p>There are a number of other emerging priorities that this budget had to take account of including the funding of Transformation and Institutional Reform Initiatives (TIRE), determining the research agenda, sustained visibility and enhancing police safety to mitigate murders and attacks on police.</p> <p>We want a SAPS that is accessible for all citizens and to this end, we will continue to launch Mobile Community Service Centres, as well as partnering with traditional authorities and the Post Office to establish service points in areas that have scant policing service points.</p> <p>We also have to make serious budgetary determination to deal with the ever increasing attacks and murders of police officers which should, in all seriousness, make us hang our heads in shame. It is not just the ever-increasing number of police that are killed that should worry us; but the ever-growing attacks that, were it not for the way our officers have managed to protect themselves, would show a much higher mortality rate of our police.</p> <p>As we have said before, the attack on police is an attack on the authority of the state. We heed the president’s call in his state of the nation address that when attacked, the police should indeed use lawful means to effectively defend themselves and their colleagues.</p> <p>A transfer of R111-million will be effected for the Civilian Secretariat for the Police as a designated department. The Secretariat drives policy research for the Ministry and performs general support functions for the Ministry of Police.</p> <p>This financial year, we have increased the resourcing of the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (Hawks) with funding of R1, 431 billion which will also cater for the new specialized units. A decision was taken to reestablish the Narcotics Bureau and the Firearm Investigation Combating units because of the need and the outcry of our citizens.</p> <p>In the outer years of this period, the Hawks will be funded directly from Treasury, and this should satisfy compliance with the ruling of the Constitutional Court in entrenching the independence of the unit. </p> <p>The Hawks have continued to notch up impressive successes especially in the field of commercial crime and organized crime. Working with sister agencies, the unit has contributed to the freezing and forfeiture orders to the tune of R735-million.</p> <p>The unit has also been involved in fighting rhino poaching, the illegal trade in precious metals and corruption and fraud in government which has led in 91 officials being convicted.</p> <p>Our effort in fighting transnational organized crime will continue and the recently held Russia Africa Anti-Drugs Dialogue bares testimony to the reach that we are beginning to show in the focused fight against drugs. </p> <p>Some successes in this regard include the dismantling of 23 laboratories and seizure of equipment to the value of R42.8 million. Six of these laboratories were in Gauteng. The value of drugs taken out of circulation amounts to R391.4 million resulting in 64 arrests.</p> <p>Through operation Fiela, over 40 000 arrests were effected on account of vehicles impounded and firearms confiscated. The JCPS cluster continues to plan and execute operations of such magnitude, we will keep the house updated on such developments. </p> <p>The Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID), working with other departments in the justice, crime prevention and security cluster, aims to ensure that all people in South Africa live safely in a corruption free society, with an independent and fair criminal justice system. In line with this mandate, the medium term strategic focus for IPID is to contribute to the professionalisation of the police service by strengthening its investigative capacity to be able to effectively deliver on its investigations mandate.</p> <p>Over the medium term, IPID will expand its investigative methods and systems to respond to cases of police misconduct and abuse of power. IPID will further strengthen its investigative skills capacity through the newly established national specialised investigations team in order to conduct specialised investigations and facilitate the training of investigators on systemic corruption and other specialised investigations.</p> <p>It should also be noted that part of professionalising the police service by IPID includes the implementation of the recommendations of the Farlam Commission of Enquiry. This additional mandate has implications on IPID’s staffing and financial resource needs.</p> <p>Since the establishment of the new mandate in 2012, IPID has secured more than 400 disciplinary convictions; ranging from sanction of corrective counselling, dismissal from service, final written warnings, fines, suspension, verbal and written warnings; and more than 300 criminal convictions, ranging from short to long term imprisonment. This is in addition to the achievement of the Directorate’s strategic targets with improvements in the total number of investigations finalised from 48% (5 137 of 10 657) in 2014/15 to 77% (8 593 of 11 103) in 2015/16.</p> <p>It is through the above planned activities and mechanisms, that we believe the oversight role of the IPID will contribute to the professionalisation of police service in promoting good police conduct. The work by IPID ensures that members of SAPS indeed work for the South African public interests.</p> <p>The challenges of regulating private security industry, in respect of service delivery, compliance, and revenue generation rest with PSIRA. We have plans for PSIRA to increase its National foot print. In the main, this seeks to ensure that there is adequate compliance to the regulatory framework.</p> <p>As part of its objectives, PSiRA will establish a guarantee fund to provide limited guarantee to security service provider in the form of public liability and to protect consumers against loss of damage. The interest earned from this investment portfolio of the fund will be used to fund the regulatory operations of the Authority.</p> <p>House chair and honourable members</p> <p>It should be noted that the law enforcement agencies are placed under ever increasing pressures, as a result of some shortcomings – perceived or otherwise – of some service delivery imperatives.</p> <p>I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate and appreciate members of SAPS who under very trying conditions conducted themselves by applying maximum restraint and professionalism in policing public protests. Having said so we recognise and appreciate that our citizens have a right to protest their dissatisfaction however we appeal to the leadership in general to ensure that in the exercise to such a right, the right of others are not infringed upon.</p> <p>As we are about to celebrate the Freedom Day on the 27th of April, let us ensure that our rights enshrined in the Constitution are enjoyed and carried out with responsibility.</p> <p>It is only through our collective responsibility as leaders, be it leaders of the ANC or of opposition parties, religious and cultural groups, of NGO’s private companies and so on, that we can work together to encourage lawful methods of addressing grievances. For we all belong to humanity as South Africans.  In this regard let us build a united front to help build our communities.</p> <p>I thank you</p> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-issued-by-source field--type-entity-reference field--label-inline clearfix"> <div class="field__label">Issued by</div> <div class="field__item"><div> <div class="field field--name-field-website-url field--type-link field--label-hidden field__item"><a href="https://www.saps.gov.za/" target="_blank">South African Police Service</a></div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-department field--type-entity-reference field--label-inline clearfix"> <div class="field__label">More from</div> <div class="field__item"><a href="https://www.gov.za/taxonomy/term/922" hreflang="en">South African Police Service</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-gcis-speech-subjects field--type-entity-reference field--label-inline clearfix"> <div class="field__label">More on</div> <div class="field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="https://www.gov.za/taxonomy/term/684" hreflang="en">Budget: national</a></div> </div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-gcis-speech-category field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__item"><a href="https://www.gov.za/speech-categories/speeches" hreflang="en">Speeches</a></div> Thu, 21 Apr 2016 15:08:16 +0000 Vuyelwa 751097 at https://www.gov.za https://www.gov.za/speeches/minister-nkosinathi-nhleko-police-dept-budget-vote-201617-21-apr-2016-0000#comments