Western Cape SAPS Launches Crackdown on Rogue Officers

The South African Police Service (SAPS) in Western Cape is steadfast on weeding out rogue elements within its ranks. This follows revelations that 257 criminal charges, including corruption, assault, drunk driving, murder, and rape, have been lodged against officers in the province since 2020. This figure emerged after the Democratic Alliance (DA) raised parliamentary enquiries related to the issue.

During this period, 100 cases were opened in 2020; 76 in 2021; 66 in 2022; and 15 in 2023, according to Gillion Bosman, the DA's provincial spokesperson on community safety. Bosman hinted that a culture of impunity among senior SAPS management might be contributing to these offenses. To gain better insights into the matter, he plans to bring in the SAPS's senior management in the Western Cape for scrutiny by the standing committee on community safety.

Spokesperson for the SAPS, Novela Potelwa stated that the police find it unfortunate to have members criminally charged. She assured that the organisation is resolved to sensitize the force against unbecoming conduct and would institute investigations into any official found in unlawful activities. She, however, reaffirmed that the majority of Western Cape police officials are dedicated to their oath to serve the country and ensure community safety.

Robert Ramokgola, spokesperson for the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (Ipid), expressed reservations about the statistics provided. He stated that the Western Cape records more assault cases than any other offense, in contrast to the data provided.

The Police and Prisons Civil Rights Union (Popcru) expressed its condemnation of any form of brutality committed against citizens by those in service. The Union's provincial secretary, Pat Raolane, however, acknowledged the untiring efforts of the majority who put the country first, creating hopes that the malevolent officers would be held accountable.