18 May 2006
The Independent Complaints Directorate (ICD) wishes to state that the
National Police Commissionerâs statement about the existence of the ICD is not
surprising as he has always held reservations that he does not need to be
monitored.
The fact is that the volume of work coming the ICDâs way as a result of
unbelievable actions committed by some recalcitrant elements within the police
service more than confirms the need for monitoring by an external body.
While we welcome their decision to institute an internal monitoring system,
our experience is that a lot of actions committed by the members go through the
cracks and call for external impartial investigation.
In fact in many instances when police members are required by law to make
information about allegations of illegal action available, they have not come
forward with the information.
It is important to note that there are two positives that come out of the
commissionerâs statement. One is that there is a realisation within the service
that there is a need for monitoring, hence they have this new unit.
The other and more important aspect is that the National Commissioner has
opened up debate about the existence of the Independent Complaints Directorate
and South Africans can now enter the fray and perhaps tell Parliament how
essential such a body is.
The Acting Executive Director of the ICD, Mr Leslie Xinwa said: âWe need to
emphasise that the South African model of policing oversight is highly regarded
in Africa and internationally. We have been lobbying for the concept of
policing oversight and we are regarded as pioneers in this field,
internationally and in Africa, more so because of our own independent impartial
investigations.
âWe wish to reiterate that we strongly believe that policing oversight is a
must in a democratic societyâ.
Enquiries:
Leslei Xinwa
Acting Executive Director
082 446 6836
Steve Mabona
ICD National Spokesperson
082 8091 1927
Issued by: Independent Complaints Directorate
19 May 2006
