SAPS, IPID, CSPS Budget Vote Reports

Video In a virtual meeting, the Portfolio Committee considered its 2024 budget vote reports of the South African Police Service (SAPS), the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID), and the Civilian Secretariat for Police Service (CSPS). The Chairperson stressed the Committee's concerns about the working conditions of police detectives, highlighting incidents in Kuilsriver, Eldorado Park and Mpumalanga. The effectiveness of specialised units and task teams for addressing crime trends was questioned, as significant funds were being spent without tangible results. Future measures to hold the police accountable for expenditure were mentioned. The increase in stock theft levels was also addressed, with a recommendation for decentralising stock theft units to police station levels. Concerns were raised about the inadequate budget and performance of the Crime Intelligence Division. It was noted that the division received less than 5% of the SAPS budget, which was insufficient for its crucial role. The need for improved crime intelligence and proactive measures was emphasised, along with the inadequacy of wellness programs for police members, which affected morale and effectiveness. The Committee resolved to further scrutinise budget allocations for detective services and crime intelligence. The SAPS was urged to focus on the National Drug Master Plan and the Prevention and Treatment of Substance Abuse Act in order to tackle substance abuse, and improve the regulation of firearms to curb illegal firearm proliferation. The importance of community-oriented policing and partnerships was stressed. The Committee recommended investing in data-driven analytics to direct policing efforts more effectively. The Committee expressed gratitude for the work done by the Minister of Police and the National Commissioner, while highlighting ongoing issues such as vehicle allocations and substance abuse among police members. The report concluded with the adoption of the SAPS budget for 2024, despite objections from the EFF. The Committee also reviewed the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) report, stressing the need for an increased budget allocation to enable the Department to effectively execute its mandate. Concerns about the workload and capacity constraints of IPID investigators were noted, along with the need for adequate wellness programs and protection for civilian witnesses. The IPID budget for 2024 was adopted, with objections from the EFF. Finally, concerns about Community Police Forums (CPFs) were raised, highlighting the need for adequate training and resourcing, and a standardised approach across the provinces. The importance of public awareness of the CSPS's mandate, and a uniform approach to civilian oversight of the police, was emphasised. Finalisation of the SAPS Amendment Bill and improved marketing strategies to enhance public awareness of the CSPS's role in police accountability, were recommended. The report on the CSPS for 2024 was adopted, with objections from the EFF.