Acting Police Minister Firoz Cachalia has insisted that the South African Police Service (SAPS) is not in crisis, despite ongoing challenges within the organisation.
Speaking during festive season operations in KwaZulu-Natal, Cachalia praised police officers for their daily efforts in protecting communities. He said the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry will play a critical role in identifying areas that require reform, including efficiency, capability and accountability.
Cachalia emphasised that South Africa has built a constitutional police service, and that the commission’s findings will help strengthen policing into the future.
“The picture that emerges from the Madlanga Commission about policing in South Africa is important because it’s going to tell us a story that is perhaps difficult to absorb and to accept — that there are areas of reform that need attention,” Cachalia said.
Meanwhile, KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi has raised concerns about the disbandment of the political killings task team, following a letter issued by suspended Police Minister Senzo Mchunu.
Mkhwanazi said he suspects external influence may be behind the decision and praised the progress made by the Madlanga Commission. He added that he is prepared to appear before the commission during Phase 3 if summoned.
The provincial commissioner also stressed the importance of maintaining proper command structures within SAPS, warning that bypassing the chain of command could lead to operational dysfunction.
He said all directives must flow through the correct channels to ensure effective and accountable policing.
VOC News
Photo: @SAPoliceService/X
