Cachalia to appoint interim body to restore credibility of SAPS

Acting Police Minister Firoz Cachalia said he will appoint an interim governance council to reset and restore credibility in the South African Police Service (SAPS).

Cachalia told Parliament the council will be responsible for ensuring the recommendations of the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry investigating police corruption are acted upon.

Answering questions in the National Assembly on Wednesday, he moved to give members of Parliament (MPs) the assurance that rotten cops will face consequences.

Cachalia said the disciplinary provisions of the SAPS need an overhaul, and proceedings should ideally be overseen by an external expert.

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He said he’s made sure cops named in the Madlanga Commission’s interim report - including in the Ekurhuleni municipal police - have been suspended while disciplinary steps are taken.

Cachalia said the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) is also conducting investigations based on the inquiry’s recommendations.

“There is no doubt in my mind that where criminal conduct is proven, that should lead to dismissal.”

Cachalia said he’s suggested vetting and lifestyle audits begin with those working in high-risk departments such as procurement and Crime Intelligence.

“We are fully committed to implementing rigorously, an integrity agenda as part of the reset process for the SAPS, and the criminal justice system as a whole.”

Cachalia said trust in the SAPS can only be restored if there’s accountability.