ATC220504: Report of the Portfolio Committee on Police on the 2022/23 Budget for Vote 28 and Annual Performance Plan (APP) of the Department of Police (SAPS), Dated 04 May 2022

Police

REPORT OF THE PORTFOLIO COMMITTEE ON POLICE ON THE 2022/23 BUDGET FOR VOTE 28 AND ANNUAL PERFORMANCE PLAN (APP) OF THE DEPARTMENT OF POLICE (SAPS), DATED 04 MAY 2022.

The Portfolio Committee on Police examined the Budget Vote of the Police (Vote 28) for the 2022/23 financial year, as well as the projections of the Medium-Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF) for 2020-2024, which were included in the Estimates of National Expenditure (ENE) 2022. The budget was examined in conjunction with the Annual Performance Plan 2022/23 and the Strategic Plan (2020-2025). The Committee reports as follows:

1.Introduction

1.1.Structure

The Report provides an overview of the 2022/23 Budget Hearings of the Department of Police. The Report is structured as follows:

Section 1: Introduction. This section provides an introduction to this Report as well as a summary of meetings held during the hearings.
Section 2: Impact of COVID-19. The section provides a summary of the COVID-19 pandemic on the SAPS’ financial and service delivery performance throughout the 2020/21 financial year to date.
Section 3: Appointment of new National Commissioner and five-year priorities.
Section 4: Links to other plans for the 2022/23 financial year. This section highlights the strategic focus areas for the Department of Police for the year under review, including the National Development Plan, 2019-2024 Medium-term Strategic Framework (MTSF), District Development Model (DDM), Ministerial Crime Retreat Programme of Action (MPoA), Integrated Resource Management Strategy (IRMS) and the Infrastructure Plan.
Section 5: SAPS Budget and Performance targets for 2022/23. This section provides an analysis of the budget allocations, spending priorities and performance indicators per programme of the Department of Police for the 2022/23 financial year.
Section 6: Concerns raised by police unions. This section summarises the concerns raised by police unions, including the Police and Prisons Civil Rights Union (POPCRU) and the Independent Policing Union of South Africa (IPUSA).
Section 7: Committee observations: SAPS. This section provides selected observations made by the Portfolio Committee on Police in general, on the annual performance targets and programme specific issues during the 2022/23 budget hearings and subsequent responses by the Department of Police.
Section 8: Recommendations and additional information. This section summarises the recommendations made by the Portfolio Committee on Police, as well as the additional information requested from the Department of Police.
Section 9: Conclusion. This section provides concluding remarks.

1.2.Meetings held

The Committee met on 20 April 2022 to consider the SAPS 2022/23 APP and Budget. The Committee also met with two police unions, namely the Police and Prisons Civil Rights Union (POPCRU) and the Independent Policing Union of South Africa (IPUSA) on 22 April 2022. The South African Policing Union (SAPU) declined the invitation from the Committee.

2.Impact of COVID-19

On 15 March 2020, President Ramaphosa declared the COVID-19 pandemic a national disaster and on 23 March 2020, announced a national lockdown that started from midnight on 26 March 2020 and would run for 21 days ending on 16 April 2020. Since then, Government has implemented an Adjusted Risk Strategy and South Africa has been under various levels of restriction since the initial lockdown. The SAPS, together with the South African Defence Force (SANDF) and the Metro Police Services, were tasked to enforce these restrictions. On 04 April 2022, the State of Disaster was lifted after 750 days since the start of the State of Disaster in March 2020.

The biggest impact of the COVID-19 lockdown regulations was on the SAPS’ spending performance, specifically on the movement of personnel and training interventions. Furthermore, procurement processes and spending on buildings and infrastructure were severely affected.

As at 23 February 2022, approximately 8 370 494 screenings of, and 170 913 tests on SAPS members have been conducted. At this date, the SAPS had approximately 47 272 confirmed COVID-19 infections and 884 fatalities due to COVID-19. The SAPS has spent approximately R1,75 billion, in its efforts to contain and manage COVID-19 and in terms of the operational requirements associated with enforcing the Disaster Management Act Regulations.

3.Appointment of new National Commissioner and 5-year priorities

President Ramaphosa appointed General Masemola as the new National Commissioner of SAPS on 1 April 2022. This came after the President and the former National Commissioner, General Sitole reached a mutual agreement for him to step aside as National Commissioner before the end of his term at the end of 2022 (Gen Sitole was appointed in November 2017). General Masemola enlisted in the police service in 1987 and has been active in the police service for 35 years. Shortly after his appointment, Gen Masemola highlighted several priorities as National Commissioner for the coming five years.

4.Links to other plans

4.1.National Development Plan (NDP)

Chapter 12 of the National Development Plan (NDP) titled “Building Safer Communities” outlines the responsibilities of the policing portfolio in South Africa. The vision of Chapter 12 is that:

"In 2030, people living in South Africa feel safe at home, at school and at work, and they enjoy a community life free of fear. Women walk freely in the streets and children play safely outside. The police service is well-resourced and professional, staffed by highly skilled officers who value their work, serve the community, safeguard lives and property without discrimination, protect the peaceful against violence, and respect the rights to equality and justice."

To achieve this vision, the NDP sets out five focus areas, including:

Strengthen the criminal justice system;
Make the police service professional;
Demilitarise the police;
Build safety using an integrated approach; and
Build community participation in safety.

4.2.2019-2024 Medium Term Strategic Framework (MTSF)

The MTSF 2019–2024 aims to address challenges of unemployment, inequality and poverty through, 1) driving a strong and inclusive economy, 2) building and strengthening the capabilities of South Africans, and 3) achieving a more capable state. These underpin the seven priorities of the MTSF –

Priority 1: Building a capable, ethical and developmental state
Priority 2: Economic transformation and job creation
Priority 3: Education, skills and health
Priority 4: Consolidating the social wage through reliable and quality basic services
Priority 5: Spatial integration, human settlements and local government
Priority 6: Social cohesion and safe communities
Priority 7: A better Africa and world

The 2022/23 SAPS APP and 2020-2025 Strategic Plan are closely aligned to the 2019-2024 MTSF and include various performance indicators required by the MTSF. In the Minister’s Foreword, he places emphasis on the value of cohesive efforts from a society-wide approach to achieve social cohesion and safe communities and acknowledges that the MTSF is a stepping-stone towards the achievement of the NDP.

4.3.District Development Model (DDM)

In 2019, President Ramaphosa initiated the District Development Model (DDM) to counteract Government’s tendency to operate in silos that leads to a lack of coherence in planning and coordination. The SAPS acknowledges that the establishment of safe and secure communities, that are conducive to socio-economic stability, thereby supporting a better life for all, is a prerequisite for the successful development and implementation of the DDM. The DDM requires the SAPS to focus on the establishment of safe and secure communities and to collaborate with all spheres of Government in establishing an integrated planning, budgeting, implementation, reporting and monitoring process.

4.4.Ministerial Crime Retreat Programme of Action (MPoA)

The Ministerial Crime Retreat Programme of Action (MPoA) was developed during a Crime Retreat during October 2019. According to the SAPS, the MPoA is a multi-year programme that will be implemented during the period applicable to the 6th Administration of Government (2019 to 2024). It includes 58 priorities.

4.5.Integrated Resource Management Strategy (IRMS)

The SAPS’ Integrated Resource Management Strategy (IRMS) has identified 10 key priorities for implementation during 2022/23. These priorities are (amongst others):

Year of the Detective Resource Plan
Technology and Innovation Requirements (4IR and E-Policing)
Gender-Based Violence (GBV) and Sexual Offences Action Plan
Forensic Services DNA Recovery Plan
Down-Management of Civil Claims
Central Firearms Register (CFR) Action Plan
Focused Resourcing of the Top Five Provinces and Top 30 Stations
Border Management Agency (BMA)

4.6.Infrastructure Projects

Over the past 12 years, 40 new police stations have been constructed countrywide. In 2009/10, South Africa had 1 116 police stations, which increased to 1 156 in 2020/21. The SAPS conducts annual accessibility assessments by conducting feasibility/work study investigations to respond to the growing policing demands. However, this method has come under criticism over the past years because it lacks transparency. The table below presents an overview of the number of police stations from 2009/10 to 2020/21.

The 2022/23 APP lists 21 new police stations on which construction will be finalised between 2023 and 2025. Of the 21 new stations, eight were started in 2016 and five in 2014. Thus, more than 60% of the police stations currently in construction were started more than five years ago. Of particular concern is the Kwa-Nocomboshe (KZN), Bhosiki (KZN) and Dun Donald (MP) police stations which were all started in 2014 and are expected to be completed in 2025, thus the construction of these police stations would have taken more than a decade to complete. It is very concerning that even though the Dun Donald station was started in 2014, no funds were spent on the project since inception in 2014.

The Riemvasmaak police station project was started in August 2019 and is set to be finished at the end of March 2024 at a cost of R41.5 million. It should be noted that Rienvasmaak has a population 694 residents. Also, the expenditure to date (R16 190 003) together with the projected expenditure for 2022/23 (R28 015 078) equates to R44.2 million (R44 205 081.00), which is already more than the total projected cost of R41.5 million and an overspending of almost 10 per cent two years before the expected finalisation date.

5.Measuring Service delivery and Financial Performance

5.1.Overall performance targets

In 2022/23, the SAPS has 91 performance targets of which most are in the Detective Services programme (30 targets/ 32.9% of the total). Overall, the performance targets remained unchanged compared to the previous financial year. The Administration and Detective Services programmes have a few new performance targets (two in the Administration programme and one in the Forensic Science Laboratory subprogramme).

5.1.1.Achieved performance: 2017/18 to 2020/21

Overall, the Department’s performance decreased between 2017/18 and 2020/21 from 78 per cent in 2017/18 to 74 per cent in 2020/21, with the lowest achievement rate recorded at 63 per cent in 2019/20. The improved performance recorded in 2020/21 was largely attributed to the improved performance recorded in the Administration Programme, which saw a significant downward trend between 2017/18 and 2019/20 from 79% achievement in 2017/18 to 67% in 2018/19 and 43% in 2019/20. In 2020/21, the Administration Programme achieved 81 per cent of its targets.

The performance of the Detective Services Programme was the only one that declined in 2020/21 compared to the previous financial year. The Programme achieved its best performance in 2018/19 when it achieved 82 per cent of its performance targets, which was also the best achievement rate across all budget programmes in that year. Since, the Programme’s performance declined to 63 per cent in 2019/20 and further to 58 per cent in 2020/21.

Both the Protection and Security Services and Crime Intelligence Programmes have shown improved performance. The Protection and Security Services Programme recorded a decline between 2017/18 and 2018/19, but has since stabilised its performance at 100 per cent achievement in both 2019/20 and 2020/21. The Crime Intelligence Programme has shown consistent improvement in achieving its performance targets between 2017/18 and 2020/21, with considerable improvement in 2020/21 (83 per cent) compared to the previous financial year (69 per cent).

5.2.Overall budget allocation

The overall budget of the SAPS increased from R47.6 billion in 2009/10 to R96.3 billion in the 2021/22 financial year, representing a 102.4 per cent growth over the period with an average annual increase of 6.1 per cent during this period. Between 2009/10 and 2013/14, the average annual increase was 9.6 per cent, which decreased to 2.8 per cent between 2017/18 and 2021/22, which according to the SAPS is indicative of the substantial baseline reductions since 2017/18. However, if the SAPS’ budget allocation continued on the former trajectory (average annual increase of 6.1 per cent), the 2022/23 budget would have been approximately R106.5 billion.

In 2022/23, the SAPS received a Main Appropriation of R100.69 billion, which is a slight nominal increase of R221.5 million or 0.2 per cent compared to the previous financial year. In real terms (inflation considered), the Department’s allocation decreased with R4.1 billion, or 4.1 per cent. For the second year, the largest decrease is in the Department’s core service delivery programme, Visible Policing. This Programme’s appropriation decreased with R508.3 million, or 0.97 per cent in nominal terms compared to the previous financial year. Considering inflation, the Programme’s appropriation decreased with R2.7 billion, or 5.24 per cent. Despite the decreased allocation, the Programme continues to receive more than half of the Department’s total 2022/23 budget allocation (51.36 per cent).

Table 1: SAPS Budget allocation 2022/23

Programme	Budget			Nominal Increase / Decrease in 2022/23 (R)	Real Increase / Decrease in 2022/23 (R)	Nominal Percent change in 2022/23	Real Percent change in 2022/23
R million	2021/22	2022/23
Programme 1: Administration	20 259,0	20 360,9	101,9		- 774,9	0,50 per cent	-3,82 per cent
Programme 2: Visible Policing	52 224,2	51 715,9	- 508,3		- 2 735,3	-0,97 per cent	-5,24 per cent
Programme 3: Detective Services	20 232,5	20 759,6	527,1		- 366,9	2,61 per cent	-1,81 per cent
Programme 4: Crime Intelligence	4 296,6	4 362,5	65,9		- 122,0	1,53 per cent	-2,84 per cent
Programme 5: Protection and Security Services	3 461,5	3 496,3	34,9		- 115,7	1,01 per cent	-3,34 per cent
TOTAL	100 473,8	100 695,3	221,5		- 4 114,7	0,2 per cent	-4,10 per cent

Source: National Treasury (2022)

The Administration Programme received a Main Appropriation of R20.36 billion in 2022/23, which is a nominal increase of R101.9 million or 0.5%. In real terms, the programme’s allocation decreased with R774.9 million or 3.82 per cent. The Detective Services Programme received a Main Appropriation of R20.75 billion in 2022/23, which is a nominal increase of R527.1 million or 2.61 per cent compared to the previous financial year. However, in real terms the programme’s allocation decreased by 1.81 per cent. The Crime Intelligence Programme’s 2021/22 allocation of R4.29 billion increased slightly with R65.9 million to a Main Appropriation of R4.36 billion in 2022/23, which is a nominal decrease of 1.53 per cent and a real decrease of 2.84 per cent. The Protection and Security Services Programme received a Main Appropriation of R3.49 billion in 2022/23, which is a nominal percentage increase of 1.01 per cent compared to the previous financial year.

The percent of total budget per Programme normally remains consistent across financial years, with only slight changes. However, the consecutive decreases in the proportional allocation to the Visible Policing programme remain concerning. In 2021/22, the proportional allocation of the Visible Policing programme decreased by 2.23 per cent compared to the previous financial year and in 2022/23, the proportional allocation decreased further by 0.62 per cent.

Table 2: Changes in percent of total budget per Programme

Programme	Budget	Percent of total budget per programme	Budget	Percent of total budget per programme	Change in percent allocation
R million	2021/22		2022/23
Programme 1: Administration	20 259,0	20,16 per cent	20 360,9	20,22 per cent	0,06 per cent
Programme 2: Visible Policing	52 224,2	51,98 per cent	51 715,9	51,36 per cent	-0,62 per cent
Programme 3: Detective Services	20 232,5	20,14 per cent	20 759,6	20,62 per cent	0,48 per cent
Programme 4: Crime Intelligence	4 296,6	4,28 per cent	4 362,5	4,33 per cent	0,06 per cent
Programme 5: Protection and Security Services	3 461,5	3,45 per cent	3 496,3	3,47 per cent	0,03 per cent
TOTAL	100 473,8	100,00 per cent	100 695,3	100,00 per cent	0,00 per cent

Source: National Treasury (2022)

In terms of allocations per economic classification in 2022/23, the significant decreases in the allocations to Households (-35.96 per cent) and Buildings and other fixed structures should be noted (-2.92 per cent).

On 16 February 2022, the Committee raised questions about the status of the SAPS Education Trust (SAPSET). The Trust is set up to provide assistance to the children of SAPS members killed on duty. During the meeting, the Minister of Police stated that the fund is personally important to him but that the trust is near collapse. In a response to questions raised during the meeting, the Minister indicated that for the 2020 academic year, an allocation was made to 349 beneficiaries and 146 were paid (203 outstanding). For the 2021 academic year, an allocation was made to 292 beneficiaries and the money is not paid yet. For 2022, the SAPS received only 20 applications of which none has been paid. The current commitment of the Trust is R5,9 million (R5 901 804,15), which is substantially more than the allocated R1 million in the 2022/23 financial year.

5.3.Personnel expenditure and fixed establishment

Over the past 10 years the staff establishment of SAPS has been declining. In 2011/12, the SAPS had 199 345 staff members, which had decreased to 182 126 at the end of 2020/21, representing a decrease of 8.8 per cent over a decade (2011/12 to 2020/21). It is expected that the staff establishment will stabilise at 178 708 in the 2022/23 financial year.

Over the medium-term, the SAPS has been allocated additional funding of R8.7 billion to accommodate the appointment of 12 000 entry-level; members. It is expected that 10 000 will replace personnel losses due to natural attrition and 2 000 will increase the establishment. As such, it is important to note that the number of personnel will increase by only 2 000 from 176 708 in 2021/22 to 178 708 in 2022/23.

According to an assessment conducted by the SAPS of the personnel resources at provinces Mpumalanga has the largest gap in terms of the ideal human resource demand versus the actual human resources of 52,5% followed by Limpopo at 49,6% and KwaZulu-Natal at 46,2%. The bulk of the 17 Community Reported Crimes reported in South Africa occur within Gauteng, KwaZulu-Natal, Eastern Cape and Western Cape. The actual human resource gaps, in terms of the ideal human resource demand versus the actual human resources, are as follows:

Gauteng: 15 020 members.
KwaZulu-Natal: 15 702 members.
Eastern Cape: 10 583 members.
Western Cape: 11 250 members.

Importantly, the SAPS has developed and refined a model to calculate the human resource needs of each police station taking into consideration the minimum number of police officers needed to render an effective police service and the population density of the policing area of each police station.

Compensation of employees accounts for an estimated 78.3 per cent (R316.6 billion) of the SAPS’ total expenditure over the medium-term. In 2022/23, the allocation to Compensation of Employees is R79.1 billion, which is a slight nominal increase of 0.6 per cent compared to the previous financial year.

5.4.Staff morale

In 2021, the SAPS conducted an internal Organisational Climate Survey (OCS). The results of the survey point towards a very low staff morale in the SAPS. The OCS measured SAPS members’ perceptions on the extent to which the SAPS cares about the well-being of its employees. The survey revealed that 22,17 per cent of respondents agreed that the SAPS cares about the well-being of its employees, 25,90 per cent were neutral and 51,87 per cent disagreed. One of the lowest scoring areas were in the way the SAPS communicates changes that effect employees. It indicated that 16,66% agreed that the SAPS does an excellent job in communicating changes that effect employees, 26,93% were neutral and 56,31% disagreed.

The survey revealed that the two areas that SAPS members are most dissatisfied with is opportunities for future career progression (68.46 per cent dissatisfied) and the process used for promotions in the SAPS (77.81 per cent dissatisfied).

The organisational climate survey confirms the following:

SAPS members have low morale.
Job dissatisfaction has effect on SAPS members’ low morale.
Unconducive working conditions have impact on SAPS members’ low morale.
Some unconducive, working relationships have influenced SAPS members’ negative morale.
Lack of proper communication has an impact on SAPS members’ low morale.

The following recommendations were made:

The SAPS should review its current career pathing, career development and promotion policy and benchmark best practices from sister departments such as South African Defence Force (SANDF) and even abroad.
The SAPS should strengthen its recruitment, retention and retirement strategies with clear policy directives.
The SAPS should provide adequately resources to all business units/police stations with more emphasis on the previously disadvantaged rural provinces to boost the morale of the members.
The SAPS should support and capacitate the Employee Health and Wellness (EHW) initiates, professionalise EHW and adequately fund the EHW programmes.
The SAPS top management must review the following strategies:
- Communication
- Recognition at work
- Job satisfaction
- Feedback mechanisms
- Rewards
- Benefits
- Lack of promotions and/or opportunities.

5.5.Programme 1: Administration

Programme purpose: Provide strategic leadership, management and support services to the South African Police Service.

5.5.1.Performance targets

The Administration Programme has 22 performance indicators for the 2022/23 financial year. There are two new performance indicators, one to monitor the implementation of Closed Circuit Television (CCTV) capabilities at 102 sites and two to monitor competency in training on leadership courses. The 2021/22 indicator to monitor the establishment of digital radio communication infrastructure sites was removed. The 2022/23 performance indicators of the Administration programme include:

Table 3: 2022/23 Performance indicators and targets for the Administration programme

Number of SAPS-owned firearms reported as stolen/lost: Target to reduce by 10% to 600 in 2022/23.

The number of new police stations established, as per the SAPS Infrastructure Development Programme. The target to establish 02 new police stations in 2022/23.

The number of mobile contact points procured. Target of 30 contact points in 2022/23.

Number of identified Closed Circuit Television (CCTV) sited implemented. Target for 102 CCTV sites

New target

Number of identified National Network Communication Infrastructure sites modernised and implemented. Target of 110 WAN sites in 2022/23.

Percentage of learners assessed and declared competent upon completion of specified training in prioritised training areas: Crime Prevention: Target of 97% of learners assessed and declared competent.

Percentage of learners assessed and declared competent upon completion of specified training in prioritised training areas: Crimes committed against women and children: Target of 97% of learners assessed and declared competent.

Percentage of learners assessed and declared competent upon completion of specified training in prioritised training areas: Crime Investigations: Target of 97% of learners assessed and declared competent.

Percentage of learners assessed and declared competent upon completion of specified training in specialised capabilities: Public Order Policing: Target of 97% of learners assessed and declared competent.

Percentage of learners assessed and declared competent upon completion of specified training in specialised capabilities: Forensic Science: Target of 97% of learners assessed and declared competent.

Percentage of learners assessed and declared competent upon completion of specified training in specialised capabilities: Crime Intelligence: Target of 97% of learners assessed and declared competent.

Percentage of learners assessed and declared competent upon completion of specified training in specialised capabilities: Cybercrime: Target of 97% of learners assessed and declared competent.

Percentage of learners assessed and declared competent upon completion of specified training in Leadership and Management Development Programmes. Target of 97% of learners assessed and declared competent.

New target

Percentage compliance with the SAPS’ Ethics and Integrity Plan: Target of 100% compliance within the prescribed timeframes in 2022/23.

Percentage of IPID-related cases finalised within the prescribed timeframe. Target remains unchanged in 2022/23 at 90% of cases finalised within 60 calendar days.

Number of incidents of unauthorised expenditure: Target to record zero incidents of unauthorised expenditure.

Percentage decrease in the number of incidents of confirmed irregular expenditure. The 2022/23 target is a reduction of 70%. However, a 300% increase was recorded in 2021/22.

Percentage decrease in the number of incidents of fruitless and wasteful expenditure. The 2022/23 target is a reduction of 80%. However, a 103.7% increase was recorded in 2021/22.

Percentage of audits completed in terms of the Internal Audit Plan: Target remains unchanged at 100%.

Percentage of planned forensic investigations finalised: Target remains unchanged at 100%. Note that the forensic investigations are those conducted within the SAPS by the Internal Audit Component.

Percentage of inspections executed in terms of the approved Inspection Plan: Target remains unchanged at 100% (231 inspections).

Implemented SAPS Corporate Governance Framework: Target to implement 50% of the Framework by 31 March 2023.

Source: SAPS 2022/23 APP

5.5.2.Budget allocation

The Administration Programme received a Main Appropriation of R20.3 billion in 2022/23, which is a slight nominal increase of R101.9 million or 0.5 per cent compared to the previous financial year. In real terms, the Programme’s Appropriation decreased with 3.82 per cent. The increased allocation lies almost exclusively in the Corporate Services subprogramme, which increased with 0.5 per cent from R20.0 billion in 2021/22 to R20.1 billion in 2022/23. The Ministry subprogramme received the largest percentage increase of 2.26 per cent, which is a slight nominal increase of R1.4 million in 2022/23 compared to the previous financial year.

Table 4: Administration Programme: Difference in 2021/22 and 2022/23 budget allocation

Programme	Budget		Nominal Increase / Decrease in 2022/23 (R)	Real Increase / Decrease in 2022/23 (R)	Nominal Percent change in 2022/23	Real Percent change in 2022/23
R million	2021/22	2022/23
Sub-programme 1: Ministry	62,6	64,0	1,4	- 1,3	2,26 per cent	-2,14 per cent
Sub-programme 2: Management	103,4	102,8	- 0,6	- 5,0	-0,58 per cent	-4,86 per cent
Sub-programme 3: Corporate Services	20 093,0	20 194,1	101,1	- 768,5	0,50 per cent	-3,82 per cent
TOTAL	20 259,0	20 360,9	101,9	- 774,9	0,5 per cent	-3,82 per cent

Source: National Treasury (2022)

5.6.Programme 2: Visible Policing

Purpose: Enable police stations to institute and preserve safety and security; and to provide for specialised interventions and the policing of South Africa’s borders.

5.6.1.Performance measurement

The Visible Police Programme has a total of 24 performance indicators, with no new performance indicators. The majority of the targets are in the Crime Prevention subprogramme (15 targets), followed by the Border Security subprogramme (5 targets) and the Specialised Interventions subprogramme (4 targets).

Table 5: 2022/23 target of the Crime Prevention subprogramme

Number of stolen, lost and illegal firearms recovered: The 2022/23 target is to increase the number of stolen, lost and illegal firearms recovered by 1% to 2 694.	Number of identifiable stolen/lost SAPS-owned firearms recovered: The 2022/23 target to increase the recovery with 10% to 215 firearms.	Percentage of applications for new firearm licenses finalised within 120 working days: Target to finalise 90% of applications within 120 working days. During 2021/22, the estimated achievement on this target was 53.8%.
Percentage of identified illegal liquor outlets closed: The 2022/23 target for the percentage of identified illegal liquor outlets closed remains unchanged at 100%.	Percentage reduction in the number of reported contact crimes: The target is set at a reduction of 8.95% to 595 485 in 2022/23.	Percentage reduction in the number of reported contact crimes at the Top 30 High Contact Crime Weight Stations: The target is set at a reduction of 8.75% to 81 432 in 2022/23.
Number of escapees from police custody: Target to decrease the number of escapes from custody by 2% to 573 escapes in 2022/23.	Number of stolen/robbed vehicles recovered: The target is to maintain the number of recovered vehicles at 28 619 in 2022/23.	Percentage of police stations rendering a victim friendly service to victims of crime, including GBVF: The target remains at 100% of functional police stations.
Percentage reduction in the number of reported contact crimes against women (18 years and above): The target is set at a reduction of 7.2% to 151 338 in 2022/23.	Percentage reduction in the number of reported contact crimes against children (below 18 years): The target is set at a reduction of 6.7% to 33 929 in 2022/23.	Percentage of police stations that have functional Community Police Forums: The target remains unchanged at 99.57% in 2022/23
Number of Provinces in which the Community-in-Blue Concept has been initiated: The target is to implementation the concept in 9 provinces during 2022/23.	Number of Provinces in which the Traditional Policing Concept has been implemented: In 2022/23, the SAPS will implement the concept in one province (unspecified).	Number of cities and towns in which the implementation of the Safer Cities Framework has been initiated: The Framework will be implemented in 20 cities/towns during 2022/23.

Source: SAPS 2022/23 APP

The Specialised Interventions and Border Security subprogramme has 9 performance indicators. The majority of performance indicators in the Border Security subprogramme revolve around crime-related hits reacted to because of the Movement Control System (MCS) and the Enhanced Movement Control System (EMCS) on wanted persons and circulated stolen or robbed vehicles. The other performance indicators aim to search 100% of profiled vehicles at land ports, containers at sea ports and cargo consignments at airports for illegal facilitation of persons, contraband, illicit goods and/or stolen/robbed property.

Table 6: 2022/23 performance targets: Specialised Interventions and Border Security

Percentage of peaceful crowd management incidents policed: Target remains unchanged at 100%

Percentage of unrest crowd management incidents stabilised: Target remains unchanged at 100%.

Percentage of medium to high-risk incidents responded to, in relation to requests received: Target remains unchanged at 100%.

Percentage of identified illegal mining operations responded to, in relation to medium to high-risk requests received: Target remains unchanged at 100%.

Percentage of crime-related hits reacted to as a result of the Movement Control System (MCS) and Enhanced Movement Control System (EMCS) on wanted persons: Target remains unchanged at 100%.

Percentage of crime-related hits reacted to as a result of the MCS and EMCS on circulated stolen or robbed vehicles: Target remains unchanged at 100%.

Percentage of profiled vehicles at land ports searched for the illegal facilitation of persons, contraband, illicit goods and/or stolen robbed property: Target remains unchanged at 100%.

Percentage of profiled containers at sea ports searched for illegal facilitation of persons, contraband, illicit goods and/or stolen robbed property: Target remains unchanged at 100%.

Percentage of profiled cargo consignment at airports searched for illegal facilitation of persons, contraband, illicit goods and/or stolen robbed property: Target remains unchanged at 100%.

Source: 2022/23 SAPS APP

The SAPS currently has 51 Public Order Policing (POP) Units with a staff establishment of 5 892 and a Nyala fleet of 498 of which only 202 are operational. The old Nyalas are being phased out and progress has been made with the procurement of new generation Nyalas. However, an additional 120 Nyalas/Armoured Vehicles are required to adequately service the POP Units.

The implementation of the Border Management Agency (BMA) should be interrogated thoroughly, especially in terms of resource requirements for the mandatory Border Control functions that must be performed by the SAPS, in the event of the Border Control function being migrated to the BMA. All resources utilised at the border that are used exclusively for border control, can be transferred to the BMA. According to the SAPS, an urgent work study investigation must be done in relation to the separation and the costing of the border control and classical border policing functions.

The border security functions and the resources that are associated with these functions that are required to be transferred to the BMA, is currently being clarified. The SAPS, however, continues to provide border security at the 72 ports of entry (53 land ports, 10 air ports and nine sea ports) during its ongoing engagements with the DHA, on the establishment of the BMA.

5.6.2.Budget allocation

The Visible Policing Programme’s Main Appropriation is reduced from R52.2 billion in 2021/22 to R51.7 billion in 2022/23. This is a nominal decrease of R508 million (or -1.0 per cent) and a real decrease of R2.7 billion (or 5.24 per cent) and is largely in the Crime Prevention subprogramme. The subprogramme’s allocation is reduced from R40.6 billion in 2021/22 to R39.8 billion in 2022/23, which is a nominal decrease of R806.8 million or 1.98 per cent and a real decrease of 6.21 per cent.

Table 7: Visible Policing Programme: Difference in 2021/22 and 2022/23 budget allocation

Programme	Budget		Nominal Increase / Decrease in 2022/23 (R)	Real Increase / Decrease in 2022/23 (R)	Nominal Percent change in 2022/23	Real Percent change in 2022/23
R million	2021/22	2022/23
Sub-programme 1: Crime Prevention	40 644,4	39 837,6	- 806,8	- 2 522,3	-1,98 per cent	-6,21 per cent
Sub-programme 2: Border Security	2 271,0	2 255,0	- 16,0	- 113,1	-0,71 per cent	-4,98 per cent
Sub-programme 3: Specialised Interventions	4 797,6	4 898,6	101,0	- 109,9	2,11 per cent	-2,29 per cent
Sub-programme 4: Facilities	4 511,2	4 724,7	213,5	10,1	4,73 per cent	0,22 per cent
TOTAL	52 224,2	51 715,9	- 508,3	- 2 735,3	-1,0 per cent	-5,24 per cent

Source: National Treasury (2022)

The allocation for the Border Security subprogramme decreased from R2.27 billion in 2021/22 to R2.25 billion in 2022/23 (-R16 million or 0.71%). The allocation for the Specialised Interventions subprogramme increased from R4.78 billion in 2021/22 to R4.89 billion in 2022/23, which is a nominal increase of R101 million or 2.11 per cent. The Facilities subprogrammes received an allocation of R4.7 billion which is an increase of R213.5 million compared to the previous financial year.

5.7.Programme 3: Detective Services Programme

Purpose: Enable the investigative work of the SAPS, including providing support to investigators in terms of forensic evidence and criminal records.

5.7.1.Performance targets

The Detective Services Programme has 30 performance indicators in total, of which most are located in the Crime Investigations subprogramme (14 indicators), followed by the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI) (7 indicators). The Forensic Science Laboratory subprogramme has six performance indicators with one new performance target in 2022/23 to enhance the processing of forensic evidence and forensic intelligence case exhibits. The Criminal Record Centre subprogramme has three performance targets to improve the processing of fingerprint searches and maintenance of criminal records.

Table 8: 2022/23 performance targets of the Crime Investigation subprogramme

Detection rate for contact crimes: The target for 2022/23 is 51%.	Detection rate for contact crimes at the 30 High Contact Crime Weight Stations: The 2022/23 target is 45%.	Percentage of outstanding case dockets related to contact crimes older than 3-years finalised: The 2022/23 target is 15%.
Percentage of outstanding wanted persons for contact crimes already circulated at the 30 High Contact Crime Weight Stations finalised: The 2022/23 target is 12%.	Detection rate for crimes against women (18 years and above): The 2022/23 target is 71%.	Detection rate for crimes against children (below 18 years): The 2022/23 target is 65.00%.
Percentage of identified drug syndicates neutralised with arrests: The 2022/23 target is 70%.	Percentage increase in the number of arrests for dealing in illicit drugs: Target remained unchanged at 5%.	Percentage of identified organised criminal groups neutralised with arrests: The 2022/23 target is 70%.
Percentage compliance with the taking of buccal samples from schedule 8 arrested offenders: The 2022/23 target is 75%.	Percentage of person-to-crime DNA investigative leads finalised. The 2022/23 target is 17.5%.	Percentage of crime-to-crime investigative leads finalised: The 2022/23 target is 6.3%.
Percentage of fingerprint investigative leads finalised: The 2022/23 target is 7%.	Percentage of outstanding Integrated Ballistics Identification System (IBIS) investigative leads finalised: The 2022/23 target is 13.5%.

Source: SAPS 2022/23 APP

Table 9: 2022/23 performance target of the Criminal Record Centre subprogramme

Percentage of results of trial updated in respect of the following: Guilty verdict: The 2022/23 target remained unchanged at 95% of results updated within 20 calendar days.

Percentage of results of trial updated in respect of the following: Not guilty verdict. The 2022/23 target remained unchanged at 95% of results updated within 20 calendar days.

Percentage of original previous conviction reports generated: The 2022/23 target remained unchanged at 95% of results updated within 15 calendar days.

Source: SAPS 2022/23 APP

Table 10: 2022/23 performance targets of the Forensic Science Laboratory subprogramme

Percentage of routine case exhibits (entries) finalised: The 2022/23 target remains unchanged at 75% of exhibits processed within 35 calendar days.

Percentage of non-routine case exhibits (entries) finalised: The 2022/23 target remains unchanged at 70% of exhibits processed within 113 calendar days.

Percentage of case exhibits (entries) not yet finalized exceeding the prescribed periods: The 2022/23 target remains unchanged for the backlog not exceeding 10% of registered case exhibits.

Percentage of DNA case exhibits (entries) not yet finalised exceeding the prescribed time frames: The 2022/23 target is the backlog not to exceed 10% of registered case exhibits.

New target

Percentage of Ballistics Intelligence (IBIS) case exhibits (entries) finalised. Target remains unchanged at 95% finalisation within 35 calendar days.

Percentage of Biology Deoxyribonucleic Acid (DNA) Intelligence case exhibits (entries) finalised: Target remains unchanged at 80% processed within 90 calendar days.

Source: SAPS 2022/23 APP

5.7.2.Directorate for Priority Crime Investigations (DPCI)

The Directorate for Priority Crime Investigations (DPCI), commonly known as the Hawks is located as a Directorate within the SAPS under the Specialised Investigations subprogramme.

Table 11: 2022/23 performance targets of the DPCI

Percentage of trial-ready case dockets for serious corruption within the public sector: The 2022/23 target is 70%.	Percentage of trial-ready case dockets for serious corruption within the private sector: The 2022/23 target is 70%.	Percentage of trial-ready case dockets for serious corruption within the JCPS Cluster: The 2022/23 target is 70%.
Percentage of registered serious organised crime project investigations successfully closed: The 2022/23 target is 72%.	Percentage of identified clandestine laboratories dismantled with arrests: The target remained unchanged at 90%.	Percentage of trial-ready case dockets for serious commercial crime: The target remained unchanged at 65%.
Percentage of serious cyber-related crime support case files successfully investigated within 90 calendar days: The 2022/23 target is 65%.

Source: SAPS 2022/23 APP

According to the National Head of the DPCI, “the procurement of specialised technological aids, software licenses for specialised investigative tools and specialised technology equipment, remains a challenge that shall receive attention to ensure the effectiveness of the investigation of all serious crime, especially those crimes being committed in the cyber space”. Furthermore, the office accommodation of the DPCI remains a key challenge that must be addressed. During 2022/23, the DPCI will prioritise the investigations and recommendations of the State Capture Commission.

The DPCI is severely under capacitated. According to the SAPS, the workload of the DPCI (as at 31 March 2021), was 20 000 case dockets inclusive of enquiries with approximately 76 000 charges. Against the fixed establishment of 5 332, the DPCI functions with a 48 per cent workforce, an actual headcount of 2 594, remaining with a deficit of 52 per cent (2 738). Of this 2 594, only 1 384 are investigating officers. As at 31 March 2021, the DPCI constitutes 1,43 per cent (2 594) of the total 180 736 human resource establishment of the SAPS.

The Committee recommended in its 2021 Budgetary Review and Recommendations Report (BRRR) that the SAPS should meet with the National Treasury to reopen negotiations on developing the DPCI as a separate programme within the SAPS. In the 2022 Budget Review, the Minister of Finance reported that the National Treasury has discussed this matter with SAPS and the DPCI, including most recently at a meeting with the DPCI in December 2021. National Treasury stated that it is not feasible to separate the DPCI from SAPS, mainly because the operational functions of the DPCI are interlinked with the existing Detective Services Programme within SAPS. The SAPS Amendment Act (2012), which establishes the DPCI, distinguishes its functions and provides it operational independence from SAPS. For budgeting purposes, however, the DPCI falls within the purpose and definition of the Detective Services Programme. The budget for the DPCI is specifically and exclusively appropriated so that it can only use funds for their intended purpose and, importantly, its budget cannot be changed without Parliament’s approval. Furthermore, as a subprogramme, the performance of the DPCI can be tracked, monitored and reported on separately in SAPS reports.

5.7.3.Budget allocation

The Detective Services Programme’s Main Appropriation increased from R20.2 billion in 2021/22 to R20.7 billion in 2022/23. This represents a nominal increase of 2.6 per cent, but a real decrease (inflation taken into account) of 1.81 per cent. The Crime Investigations subprogramme received an allocation of R14.3 billion in 2022/23, which is a nominal increase of R460.1 million or 3.32 per cent.

The Criminal Record Centre received an allocation of R2.1 billion in 2022/23, which is a slight nominal increase of R35.8 million or 1.3 per cent compared to the previous financial year.

Despite the significant challenges faced in the Forensic Science Laboratories subprogramme, the allocation was reduced in 2022/23 from R1.57 billion to R1.50 billion. Nominally, this is a reduction of R65.2 million or -4.15 per cent. In real terms, the allocation decreased with R130.2 million or 8.27 per cent.

Table 12: Detective Services Programme: Difference in 2021/22 and 2022/23 budget allocation

Programme	Budget		Nominal Increase / Decrease in 2022/23	Real Increase / Decrease in 2022/23	Nominal Percent change in 2022/23	Real Percent change in 2022/23
R million	2021/22	2022/23	Nominal Increase / Decrease in 2022/23	Real Increase / Decrease in 2022/23	Nominal Percent change in 2022/23	Real Percent change in 2022/23
Sub-programme 1: Crime Investigations	13 854,1	14 314,2	460,1	- 156,3	3,32 per cent	-1,13 per cent
Sub-programme 2: Criminal Record Centre	2 725,9	2 761,7	35,8	- 83,1	1,31 per cent	-3,05 per cent
Sub-programme 3: Forensic Science Laboratory	1 573,4	1 508,2	- 65,2	- 130,2	-4,15 per cent	-8,27 per cent
Sub-programme 4: Specialised Investigations (DPCI)	2 079,1	2 175,5	96,4	2,7	4,64 per cent	0,13 per cent
TOTAL	20 232,5	20 759,6	527,1	- 366,9	2,6 per cent	-1,81 per cent

Source: National Treasury (2022)

The Specialised Investigations subprogramme (DPCI), received an allocation of R2.17 billion in 2022/23, which is a nominal increase of R96.4 million or 4.64 per cent. The slight increase remains concerning as the Directorate still needs to be fully capacitated in terms of personnel and specialised technological aids and equipment.

5.8.Programme 4: Crime Intelligence Programme

Purpose: Manage crime intelligence, analyse crime information, and provide technical support for investigations and crime prevention operations.

5.8.1.Performance targets

The Crime Intelligence Programme has eight performance indicators to enable intelligence-led policing, effectiveness of counter-intelligence measures instituted by the SAPS and enhanced external cooperation and innovation on police reform and security matters to prevent and fight crime.

Table 13: 2022/23 performance targets of Crime Intelligence programme

Percentage of network operations successfully terminated. The 2022/23 target is 60,85% of the total number of network operations registered annually.

Percentage of security clearances finalised in the SAPS. The 2022/23 target is 100% (692).

Percentage of ICT security assessments finalised in the SAPS. The 2022/23 target is 100% (1 830).

Percentage of overt mandatory physical security assessments finalised in the SAPS. The 2022/23 target is 100% (365).

Percentage of pro-active intelligence reports that were operationalised at district level. The 2022/23 target is 75%.

Percentage of pro-active intelligence reports that were operationalised at provincial level. The 2022/23 target is 85%.

Percentage of pro-active intelligence reports that were operationalised at national level. The 2022/23 target is 92.5%.

Percentage of re-active intelligence reports that were operationalised at district level. The 2022/23 target is 75%.

Source: SAPS 2022/23 APP

In terms of leadership instability in the CI Division, the following should be noted:

The previous Divisional Commissioner (Mdluli) was appointed on 1 July 2009 and suspended on 08 May 2011.
10 Acting Divisional Commissioners were appointed during the period 09 May 2011 to 28 February 2018.
The former Divisional Commissioner (Jacobs) was appointed on 1 March 2018 and transferred on 4 December 2020.
Two Acting Divisional Commissioners have been appointed during the period 05 December 2020 to July 2021.
During his 2022 SONA, President Ramaphosa stated that the stabilisation of CI leadership will be prioritised.

5.8.2.Budget allocation

The Crime Intelligence Programme received a Main Appropriation of R4.36 billion in 2022/23, which is a nominal increase of 1.5 per cent from the R4.29 billion Adjusted Appropriation of the previous financial year. In real terms, the Programme’s allocation decreased with 2.84 per cent.

The Crime Intelligence Operations subprogramme received a nominal decrease from R1.7 billion in 2021/22 to R1.80 billion in 2022/23, which is a nominal decrease of R33.4 million or 1.88 per cent, which is a real decrease of 2.5 per cent. The Intelligence and Information Management subprogramme’s allocation increased by 1.29 per cent (nominal) from R2.52 billion in 2021/22 to R2.55 billion in 2022/23. However, this is a real decrease of R77.6 million or 3.07 per cent.

Table 14: Crime Intelligence Programme: Difference in 2021/22 and 2022/23 budget allocation

Programme	Budget		Nominal Increase / Decrease in 2022/23	Real Increase / Decrease in 2022/23	Nominal Percent change in 2022/23	Real Percent change in 2022/23
R million	2021/22	2022/23	Nominal Increase / Decrease in 2022/23	Real Increase / Decrease in 2022/23	Nominal Percent change in 2022/23	Real Percent change in 2022/23
Sub-programme 1: Crime Intelligence Operations	1 770,3	1 803,7	33,4	- 44,3	1,88 per cent	-2,50 per cent
Sub-programme 2: Intelligence and Information Management	2 526,3	2 558,9	32,5	- 77,6	1,29 per cent	-3,07 per cent
TOTAL	4 296,6	4 362,5	65,9	- 122,0	1,5 per cent	-2,84 per cent

Source: National Treasury (2022)

5.9.Programme 5: Protection and Security Services Programme

Purpose: Provide protection and security services to all identified dignitaries and government interests.

5.9.1.Performance targets

The Protection and Security Services programme has seven performance indicators and targets to measure its effectiveness.

The Programme has four subprogrammes as per the budget, but the performance indicators are delineated into only two subprogrammes, namely the Protection and Security Services subprogramme and Presidential Protection Services subprogramme. The other two subprogrammes Government Security Regulator and Operational Support, have no performance indicators assigned to them despite the subprogrammes receiving a budget allocation. This manner of reporting does not clearly indicate what funds are spent on the two Programmes, e.g. what does it cost the SAPS to protect the President?

The performance indicators of the Protection and Security Services subprogramme aim to have zero security breaches during in-transit protection and at identified government installations and identified VIP residences. VIPs include Ministers, Deputy Ministers, Premiers, Speakers, Deputy Speakers, Members of Executive Councils (MECs), Chief Justice and Deputy Chief Justice, Judge President and ad hoc VIPs, whose status is determined by the Risk Information Administration System (RIMAS) policy.

The subprogramme further measures the percentage of strategic installations audited (49 per cent/122 of 249) and evaluation of National Key Points (NKPs), targeted at 100 per cent (209 evaluations).

The performance indicators of the Presidential Protection Service subprogramme aims to have zero security breaches during physical protection of the President, Deputy President, former Presidents, former Deputy Presidents, their spouses and other identified VIPs including foreign Heads of State and former Heads of State/Government and their spouses. The subprogramme further aims to have zero security breaches at identified government installations occupied by identified protected VIP principals in terms of Cabinet Memorandum 1A of 2004, RIMAS and the Presidential Handbook, by virtue of their public office or strategic importance to the country. The Presidential Protection Service subprogramme will evaluate 10 NKPs during 2021/22.

5.9.2.Budget allocation

The Protection and Security Services programme received a Main Appropriation of R3.49 billion in 2022/23, which is a nominal increase of 1.0 per cent compared to the previous year’s allocation of R3.46 billion. In real terms, the allocation decreased by R115.7 million or 2.34 per cent.

The VIP Protection subprogramme received an allocation of R1.8 billion in 2022/23, which is a nominal increase of R32.4 million or 1.78 per cent. The Static Protection subprogrammes received a slight nominal increase of 0.01 per cent. The Government Security Regulator subprogramme received a nominal decrease of 2.1 per cent from R88.9 million in 2021/22 to R86.8 million in 2022/23. The subprogramme provides for security regulations and evaluation, the administration of national key points, and strategic installations. The Operational Support subprogramme received an allocation of R283.4 million in 2022/23, which is a nominal increase of R4.4 million or 1.55 per cent

Table 15: PSS Programme: Difference between 2021/22 and 2022/23 budget allocation

Programme	Budget		Nominal Increase / Decrease in 2022/23	Real Increase / Decrease in 2022/23	Nominal Percent change in 2022/23	Real Percent change in 2022/23
R million	2021/22	2022/23	Nominal Increase / Decrease in 2022/23	Real Increase / Decrease in 2022/23	Nominal Percent change in 2022/23	Real Percent change in 2022/23
Sub-programme 1: VIP Protection	1 819,0	1 851,4	32,4	- 47,3	1,78 per cent	-2,60 per cent
Sub-programme 2: Static Protection	1 270,1	1 270,2	0,1	- 54,6	0,01 per cent	-4,30 per cent
Sub-programme 3: Government Security Regulator	88,9	86,8	- 2,1	- 5,8	-2,35 per cent	-6,56 per cent
Sub-programme 4: Operational Support	283,4	287,9	4,4	- 8,0	1,55 per cent	-2,82 per cent
TOTAL	3 461,5	3 496,3	34,9	- 115,7	1,0 per cent	-3,34 per cent

Source: National Treasury (2022)

6.Concerns raised by Police Unions

6.1.Police and Prisons Civil Rights Union (POPCRU)

The Police and Prisons Civil Rights Union (POPCRU) raised the following concerns:

Management structure: The SAPS top heavy management structure impedes the organisation, (both on monetary and human capital fronts), to execute its constitutional mandate as prescribed in Section 205 of the Constitution. POPCRU stressed that the structure consumes too much of the budget allocated to the SAPS and that it must be reviewed as much needed personnel and skills are concentrated at the high echelons of the SAPS.
Lack of resources: POPCRU raised the lack of resources and infrastructure at police stations, especially in rural and townships, as a serious concern and indicated that this undermines the efforts of fighting and preventing crime in communities. The distribution of resources is especially lacking in rural areas and black townships, where the population growth is high and informal human settlements grow exponentially, compared to suburban areas. Most police stations in rural areas and townships are housed in unsafe and dilapidated structures, which expose police members to unconducive working conditions and attacks by criminals. These police stations in rural areas, are also manned by a fewer personnel due to the long standing challenge of inadequate human capital.
Crime prevention and community involvement: POPCRU noted the importance of crime prevention and community involvement in initiatives to build safer communities. The tangible results of interventions to fight crime (such as community-in-blue concept, the safer cities framework and integrated schools’ safety programme) were questioned. It was stated that a successful working relationship between communities and SAPS is lacking and that there is mistrust by communities due to the lack of services from SAPS. POPCRU noted the ineffectiveness of Community Policing Forums as a concern
GBVF: POPCRU recommended that police stations must be resourced with the Rape Testing Kits (RTK) and police officers trained on how to use them. The SAPS should increase GBV desks to all police stations countrywide.
Visible Policing: The continuous decrease in the Visible Policing budget and underspending of the allocated budget were raised as key concerns. POPCRU indicated that the SAPS needs more personnel and that the additional 12 000 recruits over the next two years is insufficient to address the needs of the SAPS.
Police killings and attacks on police stations: The continued attacks on, and killing of, police members were raised as a concern. POPCRU listed several incidents and stated that these attacks demonstrate the vulnerability of police officers in police and satellite stations attributed to disparities in the allocation of resources and decreases in personnel numbers.

6.2.Independent Policing Union of South Africa (IPUSA)

The Independent Policing Union of South Africa (IPUSA) raised the following concerns:

Detective Services: IPUSA recommended that the Detective Services should be better resourced in terms of personnel, and unmarked vehicles should be for the exclusive use of Detectives.
Forensic Science Laboratories: All provinces should have forensic laboratories as the transportation cost of forensic samples is very high. It is recommended that the SAPS invest in forensic competencies from specific graduates and partner with universities on locally designed technology.
Vehicle availability: IPUSA disputed the contention of the SAPS that there are insufficient
vehicles available, but rather that poor management of vehicles results in the lack of visible policing.
Crime Intelligence: The Crime Intelligence Division should be incorporated into core service delivery programmes such as crime prevention (proactive policing) and crime detection (reactive policing).
Unbundling financial programmes: IPUSA recommends that the Committee should engage National Treasury to unbundle the financial programmes of the SAPS as they create unnecessary red tape. Operational commissioners should be empowered.
Utilisation of task teams: IPUSA noted that task teams are very costly and that specialised units should rather be established (which saves on housing and compensation of employees). It was recommended that the SAPS should provide the Committee with an audit on the number of task teams and their funding to date.

7.Committee Observations

The Committee made the following observations during the 2022/23 SAPS budget and APP hearing:

Newly appointed National Commissioner. The Committee congratulated General Masemola on his appointment as the National Commissioner of the SAPS and wished him well during his term of office.

Term of Office of the National Commissioner. The Committee raised concern about the age of the National Commissioner as he will reach retirement age within two years. Members questioned whether he will be able to implement his priorities in this short timeframe. The SAPS indicated that the contract of the National Commissioner runs from 01 April 2022 to 31 March 2027 in accordance with the Constitution as well as Sections 7 and 45 of the SAPS Act, 1995. The National Commissioner’s age of retirement is regulated by his contract with the President. However, the Committee was not satisfied with the response and requested urgent clarity on the interpretation of the SAPS Act in this regard.

Term of Office of the National Head of the DPCI. The Committee requested clarity on the term of office of the National Head of the DPCI, as he reached retirement age in September 2021 and in accordance with the SAPS Act, the contract can only be extended beyond this age by a resolution of Parliament. The Deputy Minister of Police indicated that the Civilian Secretariat for Police Service provided two conflicting legal opinions on how to process the matter and as such an independent legal opinion was sought. The matter is being prioritised to bring stability to the DPCI. The Chairperson indicated that the matter should be responded to before 22 April 2022 and that the matter will be placed on the Committee’s agenda. The Chairperson requested legal opinion from the Parliamentary Legal Services on the interpretation of Section 17CA of the SAPS Act and how the Committee should proceed on this matter.

Head of Crime Intelligence. The Committee expressed significant concern about the ongoing instability in the Crime Intelligence Division which remains without a Divisional Commissioner. The lack of leadership in Crime Intelligence was raised by the Panel of Experts into the July 2021 Civil Unrest as a possible aggravating factor in the lack of adequate crime intelligence to pre-empt the violence that broke out. The filling of the post was also highlighted as a concern by the President during his 2022 SONA. The National Commissioner indicated that the appointment is in progress and feedback will be provided to the Committee.

Alleged inhumane conditions of training facilities in Kimberley. The Committee expressed concern about the alleged inhumane conditions at the training facility in Kimberly, including a lack of beds and bedding, intersex use of bathroom facilities and inedible food, amongst others. The SAPS indicated that the large number of recruits led to strain on the capacity at SAPS training facilities, which resulted in the situation at Kimberley. The SAPS indicated that a team led by the Deputy National Commissioner: Support Services visited the training facility and an intervention plan was developed. As immediate interventions, chefs were detached to assist with the preparation of food, and larger cooking pots and sufficient bedding were procured. Furthermore, medical personnel were deployed to the training facility. The Committee requested an urgent report on the steps taken to address these challenges.

Capacity of SAPS training academies. The Committee questioned the current capacity of SAPS training academies, in terms of infrastructure and trainers. It was reported that the SAPS has 314 trainers available across all training facilities. The SAPS indicated that there are sufficient trainers and that standards are upheld.

Recruitment. The Committee questioned the recruitment of the additional 12 000 police members as announced by the President in his 2022 SONA, including challenges with recruitment standards and recruiting the most suitable candidates who regard policing as a calling and not just a way out of unemployment. The Committee raised fears that the recruitment of police officers that are not passionate about policing could lead to unprofessional service delivery. The SAPS indicated that the recruitment of 12 000 new recruits will be done over the 2022/23 and 2023/24 financial years. In 2022/23, 7 000 personnel will be recruited and in 2023/24, 5 000 personnel will be recruited. In addition, 3 000 reservists will be recruited in 2022/23. The 7 000 recruits, together with the 3 000 reservists, require training. The SAPS had to revert back to the recruitment process that was started and stalled in 2019/20 when the COVID-19 pandemic and lockdown halted the process. The Committee further raised concern about alleged corruption in recruitment and that friends and family are hired in the SAPS and that the process is fraught by nepotism. The Committee questioned the reason for doing away with recruitment panels. The SAPS indicated that many of the recruits did not meet the recruitment standards of the SAPS, and admitted to a lack of proper communication to recruits when not successful and indicated that this will be addressed.

Promotions. The Committee raised concern about the current process of promotion in the SAPS and that many police members remain in the same rank for many years. The lack of career progression was raised as a serious concern. The SAPS indicated that they are aware of dissatisfaction, but that budgetary constraints limit promotion. The SAPS has introduced a system of grade progression within the same rank and indicated that this has contributed to the ballooning of the budget for compensation of employees over the last couple of years. The SAPS further indicated that promotion from the rank of Constable to Warrant Officer is easier and becomes more challenging when promoting to Captain as these are commissioned officers and dependent on post and budget availability.

Reservists. The Committee raised concern about the duties of reservists and indicated that some reservists are working under no supervision without adequate training and questioned whether the system must not be done away with. The SAPS indicated that reservists must meet certain standards in terms of medicals examinations, amongst others and that the SAPS is unable to accommodate all reservists.

Organisational restructuring. The Committee requested an update on the status of the Organisational Restructuring and indicated that according to the Safety and Security Sectoral Bargaining Council (SSSBC) Agreement 1 of 2020, the restructuring must be completed by 2023/24. The SAPS indicated that the process is underway and will be rolled out from salary levels 12 and downwards. The SAPS indicated that the SSSBC Agreement resulted from continued concerns that the SAPS is top heavy. To date, the number of Deputy National Commissioners has been decreased from six to three and is envisaged to further decrease to two.

Staff rotation. The Committee raised concern about the lack of staff rotation that can lead to collusion of police members in criminal activities.

Loss of skills in the SAPS. The Committee raised concern about skilled and committed police officers leaving the employment of the SAPS because they are demoralised when colleagues are engaged in corruption without any repercussions. The Committee indicated that this must be addressed and disciplinary processes must be strengthened in the SAPS.

Accommodation and safety of police officers. The Committee raised concern about inadequate accommodation of police officers forcing them to stay in communities amongst alleged criminals and criminal activity. The Committee further indicated that police members are often hesitant to act against community members because they have to use the same public transport and there seems to exist a fear amongst police members of retaliation from community members.

Proportional allocation of compensation of employees. The Committee indicated that the proportional allocation of compensation of employees, at 78.3 per cent of the total SAPS budget, is too high and leaves little funding for operations, equipment and capital acquisitions. The SAPS acknowledged that this is a concern and that the proportional allocation should ideally be at 75 per cent. In 2019/20, the proportional allocation of compensation of employees in the SAPS was 79.5 per cent and was down-managed through various initiatives including participation in the early retirement scheme of Government. The SAPS indicate that continued adjustments to the basic conditions of service has also affected the proportional allocation. However, the SAPS indicated that they are mindful not to affect resourcing at station level.

SAPS fitness programme. The Committee raised concern about the short-term Ministerial priority to reinstate the fitness programme and questioned the manner in which the SAPS currently ensure the fitness of operational members. The SAPS indicated that the programme was never stopped but that the COVID-19 pandemic and lockdown impacted the programme. The programme is ongoing and all members are subjected to bi-annual fitness tests.

SAPS Wellness programmes. The Committee questioned the effectiveness of the SAPS Wellness programmes and indicated that when police members are not in a stable mental condition and supported adequately it affects their performance and service delivery to communities. The Committee specifically questioned the support structures that are in place to prevent suicide, murder/suicide and femicide in the SAPS and requested information on the causative factors that lead to these tragic incidents. The SAPS indicated that various support structures are available and that written feedback will be provided to the Committee.

SAPS Education Trust (SAPSET). The Committee raised concern about the effective governance of the SAPS Education Trust and questioned the significant decrease in the number of applications. The Committee further questioned whether bursaries are paid and whether the bursaries cover primary, secondary and tertiary education. The Committee requested a breakdown of the bursaries. The Committee indicated that while it is easy to sympathise when a police member is killed, the SAPS must honour the fallen members of the SAPS through the education of their children. The SAPS indicated that they only have R1 million, which is not sufficient to cover the current commitments. The SAPS indicated that they had a significant challenge with payment of school fees and that Old Mutual donated R3.5 million towards this. The SAPS will continue with fundraising initiatives to bolster the funding of the Trust. It was further indicated that the Trust’s Board Members could not function during the COVID-19 pandemic and that the Board Members have since resigned. The Minister of Police is in the process of appointing new Board Members.

Central Firearm Registry (CFR). The Committee questioned the effectiveness of the CFR and indicated that significant time of the Committee has been dedicated to this matter. The Committee ask whether certain firearm-related applications could not be decentralised to provincial level to alleviate the burden at national level. The SAPS indicated that provinces may approve certain types of applications, mainly renewals in terms of self-defence, whereas new applications for self-defence must be approved at national level. In terms of the Firearm Control System (FCS) Request for Bid (RFB) 2421/2020, the SITA Board has raised concerns with the bid and requested SITA to review the RFB. The SAPS indicated that the SITA Board will consider it again on 28 April 2022.

Litigation related to FDA. The Committee questioned the ongoing litigation between the SAPS and FDA and whether forensic samples are withheld by FDA until litigation is finalised. The SAPS indicated that no samples are held, but that this could refer to old data kept on the PCEM system. The SAPS committed to conduct a due diligence investigation and will provide a factual report to the Committee. In term of ongoing litigation, the SAPS indicated that the case currently in court for breach of contract amounts to R560 million and a letter of demand was served on the SAPS for a loss of earnings amounting to R3.190 billion and the SAPS is awaiting further communication from FDA.

Fire at Parliament. The Committee requested an update on investigations into the security breach at the Parliamentary Precinct at the start of January 2022 that led to a large section of the National Assembly burning down. The SAPS indicated that the investigation is ongoing. The DPCI indicated that the case in currently before court and was postponed to 12 May 2022 because of outstanding reports from the forensic science laboratory, the crime record centre and DPWI. In terms of the police officers that were on duty at the time of the fire, two officers were redeployed outside of the protection services. The Committee further questioned when the last security audit was conducted at Parliament and what were the findings and recommendations thereof. The SAPS indicated that the Presiding Officers have not been properly inducted on the requirements of related legislation, but that it will be done within the next two weeks. The SAPS indicated that the security upgrades, such as the height of the perimeter fence will be done with the rebuilding of the National Assembly. The SAPS further indicated that the Cape Town Heritage Trust has approved the building of vehicle covers for searches and these will be built as soon as possible.

Investigations related to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC). The Committee requested an update on the cases and investigations related to the TRC. The DPCI indicated that 100 cases are currently under investigation and that some of these go back to 1968. The DPCI confirmed that five cases are currently in criminal court, one case in the inquest court and 17 matters are pending decision to prosecute. An additional 17 cases are in various stages of investigation.

July 2021 civil unrest related cases. The Committee raised concern about the lack of visible progress made on investigations related to high profile individuals that are publicly known as instigators of the July 2022 civil unrest that affected parts of Gauteng and KZN. The SAPS indicated that the investigations are ongoing and that 12 cases are investigated linked thereto. Two cases were withdrawn in court, nine are ready for trial and one case is with the National Director of Public Prosecutions for decision.

High profile cases against politicians. The Committee raised concern about the lack of progress in the investigation of high profile politicians allegedly involved in criminality and corruption. The Committee indicated that this affects public trust in the SAPS and that some individuals can act with impunity. The DPCI indicated that they operate without fear, favour or prejudice and that despite the lack of visible arrests of certain persons, many arrests have been made on politicians including mayors. The DPCI assured the Committee that they do not discriminate in cases being investigated and indicated that they have a conviction rate above 93 per cent and no acquittals. Thus, cases are thoroughly investigated before arrests are made and that they work in close cooperation with the National Prosecuting Authority to ensure prosecution.

KZN Provincial Legislature oversight visits to police stations. The Committee raised concern about the oversight visit conducted by the KZN Provincial Legislature to various police stations in the province (February 2022) during which several challenges were identified, mainly related to resourcing at police stations and infrastructure. The SAPS confirmed that they did not receive the report and will follow up on the matter.

Budget allocation for Visible Policing. The Committee raised concern about the decrease in the budget allocation of the core service delivery programme of the SAPS, Visible Policing.

Budget allocation for FSL. The Committee raised concern that despite the significant challenges faced in the Forensic Science Laboratories subprogramme, the allocation was reduced in 2022/23 from R1.57 billion to R1.50 billion. Nominally, this is a reduction of R65.2 million or -4.15 per cent. In real terms, the allocation decreased with R130.2 million or 8.27 per cent.

SAPS Garages. The Committee raised concerns about the status, capacity and efficiency of SAPS garages. The Committee questioned the average time that vehicles spend in the garages thus being unavailable for operational policing. The Committee raised further concern of allegations that private vehicles are being repaired at SAPS garages leading to a misuse of public funds. The SAPS Inspectorate used to conduct unannounced inspections at garages that is no longer done. The SAPS indicated that garages will be decentralised to provincial level as fleets are managed at provincial level, which will improve accountability. The SAPS indicated that a turn-around strategy has been developed and the aim is to have SAPS garages available on a 24-hour basis. The average turn-around time that vehicles spend in garages is one day for routine vehicle servicing, five days for minor repairs, 15 days for minor repairs and 30 days for major repairs. The SAPS has mechanics available at station level and availability of vehicles used to be 70 per cent, which has been improved to 80 per cent (current availability) and the SAPS is working towards a target of 90 per cent availability of vehicles.

Underspending. The Committee raised concern about the continued underspending of the SAPS of their budget allocation. This has a detrimental effect on service delivery and must be addressed as a matter of urgency. The Committee indicated that although the impact of the COVID-19 lockdown cannot be discounted, it should not be used as an excuse. The Committee further indicated that underspending should carry the same weight as fruitless and wasteful and unauthorised expenditure and should form part of the performance contract of the National Commissioner. The SAPS indicated that expenditure has improved and at the end of the 2021/22 financial year, the SAPS had spent 99.1 per cent of their allocated budget.

ICT Plan. The Committee raised concern about the lack of adequate ICT equipment and digital modernisation of the SAPS due to a lack of the timeous implementation of the ICT Plan. During the SAHRC hearings on the July 2021 civil unrest, the SAPS highlighted challenges with the non-synchronisation of radios which led to a breakdown in effective communication. In addition, the performance indicator to monitor the establishment of high sites was removed from the 2022/23 APP. The Committee indicated that the Deputy Minister of Police has previously referred to a legislative provision that allows the SAPS to opt out of the SITA arrangement through the Department of Public Service Administration (DPSA), which will allow the SAPS to procure their own information technology solution and no longer rely on SITA for this service. The SAPS was requested to provide clarity on this proposed opting out of the SITA arrangement and the Committee indicated willingness to assist in this regard. The plan is implemented at 60 per cent and targets are included in the Annual Operational Plan (AOP). The SAPS alluded to various capabilities relating the Tetra and other digital platforms. Project 25 was launched to synchronise SAPS radios, but concerns relating to data integrity and security must be addressed. The SAPS indicated that ICT infrastructure is very old and in many instances obsolete. The Western Cape was used as an example in that the ICT infrastructure is 22 years old. The SAPS is using Voice over IP technology to mitigate against challenges and has prioritised the modernisation of ICT infrastructure with SITA. The Committee encouraged the SAPS to work with the Civilian Secretariat for Police Service in the development of digital and e-policing policies to ensure that these come to fruition. The Committee welcomed the appointment of a Divisional Head for TMS and wished her well with the enormous task that lies ahead and further noted that the Division will be under intense scrutiny from the Committee.

SAPS Air wing capability. The Committee questioned the SAPSs air wing capability and capacity. The Committee referred to the lack of available helicopters to assist in the state of disaster declared in KZN due to recent floods, which highlighted insufficient equipment in times of crisis. The SAPS indicated that they have 34 aircrafts of which 11 are operational. In total, three helicopters and one fixed wing aircraft were deployed in KZN. The SAPS indicated that they are in the process of acquiring new capacity. A helicopter was procured from France and a second one in process of procurement. The acquisition of new aircrafts requires additional funding. The SAPS stated that technology is changing and that they are struggling with the availability of parts to repair aircrafts. The SAPS indicated that of the 11 operational aircrafts, six are helicopters and five are fixed wing. The SAPS indicate that a written response will be given in this regard. In addition, the SAPS indicated that there is no maintenance contract in place to maintain fixed wing aircraft and this must be prioritised. The Committee requested a comprehensive report, including a detailed breakdown of the SAPS air wing capabilities including the availability of pilots (distinguished in terms of the type of aircraft).

Murder of police members to be classified as crimes against the State. The Committee questioned why the murder of police members is not declared a crime against the State. The SAPS indicated that they will engage the Civilian Secretariat for Police Service to investigate the matter on how legislation could possibly be amended for this to be accommodated. However, the DPCI indicated that they are tasked with various cases of police members being killed and have looked into the matter. The current question is whether a different classification will make a difference, as murder already receives the most severe sentence in South African law.

Compliance to the taking of buccal samples. The Committee questioned the performance target compelling the SAPS to take buccal samples from 75 per cent of arrestees on Schedule 8 offences. The 2022 proclamation by the President compels the SAPS to take buccal samples from all Schedule 8 offenders. As such, the Committee asked why the target is lower than 100 per cent.

Infrastructure projects. The Committee raised concerns about the number of new police stations built in previous financial years and those that will be built in the next two financial years. The Committee noted that only two police stations were completed in 2021/22 and that only three new stations will be built in 2022/23. The Committee highlighted the fact that policing services must be brought closer to communities and this must be done through the construction of new police stations in communities. The SAPS indicated that a forensic investigation was done by the SAPS Internal Audit Division to identify challenges with the construction of new police stations. Over the next five-year period, the SAPS aims to construct 33 new police stations and 14 professionals were head hunted by the SAPS to assist in the successful completion of these infrastructure projects.

Research into the Constitutional mandate of the SAPS. The Committee requested clarity on the research that will be conducted over the short term to determine the extent to which the SAPS is executing its Constitutional mandate. The Committee requested the SAPS to indicate what informed the decision to conduct this research and what is the expected outcome thereof.

Resource allocation at top 30 crime stations. The Committee requested clarity on the resource allocation at the top-30 police stations and what resourcing is required at these stations to reduce violent crime. The Committee indicated that Station Commanders should be invited to the Committee to unpack specific challenges. The SAPS indicated that stations are mostly in need of additional vehicles, personnel and ICT equipment.

Decline in detective rate. The Committee raised concern about the continued decline in detection rates. The SAPS indicated that the detection rate has declined between 2019 to 2021, but that recovery plans were put in place to address the decline. The SAPS has launched the first ever Branch Commanders Forum, which will meet monthly to discuss various challenges. The SAPS indicated that investigative leads are underutilised and must be improved. This has been included as performance indicators. The SAPS has started with the down management of the docket load of detectives, especially those with caseloads of 100 dockets and above. The SAPS is developing norms and standards in this regard. Combined assurance measures were put in place to manage docket case load and data integrity. In terms of new recruits and capacity building in the Detective Services Division, 1 750 of the new police recruits will be allocated to the Division.

GBVF. The Committee requested the SAPS to explain what is done differently to address GBVF at declared hot spot police stations. The SAPS indicated that they are focusing on localised interventions through increased community outreach programmes, including education and awareness programmes focussed on street level. Crime prevention operations have also been adapted to respond to localised challenges in GBVF Hot Spot stations.

Border Management Agency (BMA). The Committee requested clarity on the establishment of the BMA and the impact thereof on the SAPS in terms of border security. The SAPS indicated that the BMA will be operational at ports of entry and border post, thus taking over the functions of the SAPS in the declared Border Law Enforcement Areas. The SAPS indicated that they had a meeting with the Commissioner of the BMA, the Minister of SAPS and the Minister of Home Affairs to decide on a way forward in terms of resourcing and functions. The SAPS indicated that a report will be submitted to the Committee to provide further clarity.

Critical Infrastructure Protection Act Regulations. The Committee requested the SAPS to indicate what progress has been made with the drafting of the Critical Infrastructure Protection Act Regulations. The SAPS indicated that they are working with the Civilian Secretariat for Police Service on the drafting of the Regulations and progress will be reported to the Committee.

Ineffectiveness of the 10111 call centre. The Committee raised concern about the ineffectiveness of the 10111 call centre, including excessive holding times and lack of response to complaints due to insufficient personnel. The Committee indicated that this does not instil public trust in the police, which is leading to an increased reliance on private security service providers. The Committee further indicated that there are allegations that it is in the interest of some police members that are involved in private security companies that crime remains high, as a lowering in crime will reduce the reliance on private security. The SAPS indicated that measures have been put in place to intensify the command and control of call takers. Measures are also in place to monitor the availability of police vehicles to respond to calls. The SAPS is analysing long outstanding complaints and steps will be taken. The SAPS is also ensuring regular accountability sessions with 10111 Commanders to sensitise them about the importance of responses to complaints.

Service delivery at station level. The Committee raised concern about the quality of policing services rendered to communities at station level. The Committee noted that performance seemed of higher quality at the higher echelons of the SAPS compared to lower levels. The Committee made an example of the DPCI’s performance in the dismantling of high profile crime syndicates. The Committee further raised concern that despite the development of excellent policing plans and strategies, it does not filter down to station level, thus having little impact on the quality of service delivery at the lower levels where a high quality of policing is most needed. Police members do not seem to have adequate expertise it their fields and often do not have a working knowledge of South African law. The Committee further stated that expenditure by the SAPS does not seem to match to output in terms of service delivery and that high level performance indicators seems to have little impact on ground level.

8.Recommendations, committee priorities and request for information

8.1.Committee priorities

The Committee highlighted the following five priorities that need urgent attention and intervention:

Extension of the employment contract of the National Head of the DPCI.
Condition at the Kimberley training facility.
Appointment of the Divisional Commissioner of Crime Intelligence.
Progress on the interventions at the SAPS FSL.
Progress on the interventions at the SAPS CFR.

8.2.Recommendations

The Portfolio Committee makes the following recommendations:

The Committee recommends that the SAPS should investigate the implementation of a monitoring mechanism to track the movement of police members and vehicles to proactively identify and prevent the abuse of state resources.
The Committee recommends that the SAPS should develop effective means of communication with recruits and reservists during and after enlistment processes. This could include merely noting in advertisements and applications for enlistment that communication will only be done with successful candidates and that if applicants do not hear from the SAPS within three months, those should consider their application as unsuccessful.
The Committee recommends that the SAPS must address the lack of promotion opportunities for officers serving in a rank for more than 10 years.
The Committee recommends that the Organisational Restructuring of the SAPS must be completed as a matter of priority.
The Committee recommends that the SAPS should strengthen the implementation of the staff rotation system at police stations to mitigate potential collusion in criminal activities, especially in the Detective and Forensic Services Division.
The Committee recommends that the SAPS should further down manage their proportional budget allocation of compensation of employees to bring it closer to the ideal of 75 per cent.
The SAPS should conduct research and analysis of incidents of SAPS members committing suicide, murder/suicide and femicide in order to examine the causative factors that led to the incident and ascertain whether the members involved had previously requested emotional/psychological support and whether such support was provided. The findings should be used to strengthen support services to SAPS members.
The Committee recommends that the governance of the SAPS Education Trust must be strengthened to ensure that children and other dependents of police members killed on duty are adequately supported.
The Committee recommends that the litigation with FDA must be concluded as soon as possible to avoid further escalation in legal costs and ensure stability in the FSL.
The Committee recommends that the decentralisation of SAPS garages to provincial levels must be prioritised and that inspections must be conducted to ensure that public funds are not misused.
The Committee recommends that the operating model of 10111 call centres be examined in an effort to reduce waiting times and improve the response time to reports of crime.
The Committee recommends that the building of new police stations must be prioritised to bring policing services closer to communities.
The Committee recommends that the SAPS must prioritise the modernisation of ICT infrastructure and leverage technology to fight crime.
The Committee recommends that the SAPS identify measures to improve service delivery at police stations and ensure that policing strategies are implemented effectively at station level. In this regard, the findings of the 2021 Customer Satisfaction Survey should be used to address areas where dissatisfaction were identified.
The Committee recommends that police members serving in Community Service Centres should be continuously trained and assessed on their knowledge of policing and legislative prescripts.
The Committee recommends that efforts to address GBVF should be increased especially at identified GBVF Hot Spot stations. The SAPS should apply the lessons learnt through localised interventions at these stations at other stations that are also facing high levels of GBVF. The implementation of the Department’s Gender-based Violence and Sexual Offences Action Plan must be accelerated.
The Committee recommends that the Departments should address the long-term decline in the performance of the Detective Services and must submit a report to the Committee on the manner in which this will be addressed.
The Committee recommends that the Department should accelerate the resourcing of the Top 5 provinces and Top 30 police stations. The Department should provide quarterly feedback to the Committee on progress made in this regard, as well as an implementation plan for the resourcing.
The Committee recommends that the SAPS should embark on the development of the implementation and response plans for the following reports:

Panel of Experts into the July 2021 Civil Unrest
SAHRC Hearings on the July 2021 Civil Unrest
Marikana Commission of Enquiry and Report by the Expert Panel on Crowd Management.
High Level Review Panel Report on the State Security Agency of 2018 (Chaired by Dr Sydney Mufamadi).

The SAPS must report progress on the implementation of the recommendations by 15 June 2022.

8.3.Request for information and report

The following urgent feedback is requested to reach the Committee on Friday, 22 April 2022:

Clarity on the duration of the new National Commissioner’s term of office.
Comprehensive breakdown of the SAPS air wing capability, including a breakdown of fixed wing aircraft and helicopters, operations vs. non-operational aircraft per type/category and pilots.
Auditor General’s Audit outcome for the 2021/22 financial year, as well as percentage expenditure.
Update on the filling of critical vacancies in the SAPS.
Training conditions at Kimberly facility.

Note: The reports were submitted by the SAPS and are available on request from the Committee Secretary. The report on Kimberley was submitted on Monday, 28 April 2022.

The following urgent feedback was requested to reach the Committee before or on Friday, 29 April 2022:

Clarity on the extension of the contract of the National Head of the DPCI, Lt Gen Lebeya.
The well-being and living conditions of the SAPS trainees in Kimberley.
Appointment of the Divisional Commissioner: Crime Intelligence.
Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL), including:
1. Status/progress of the DNA backlog.
2. Status of contracts for the procurement of consumables.
3. Status/implementation of the Forensic Exhibit Management (FEM) System.
4. Litigation regarding FDA.
Central Firearms Register (CFR), including:
1. Relocation of the CFR from the Veritas to the Telkom Towers Annex building.
2. Digitisation of the CFR processes.
3. Status/backlogs of new applications, renewals and amnesty applications.
4. Status and process of the printing of firearm licences.
5. Status/implementation of the new Firearm Control System.
Initiatives to support police members to prevent suicide, suicide/murder and femicide, including the causative factors leading thereto.

Note: The reports were submitted by the SAPS and are available on request from the Committee Secretary.

The following reports are requested to reach the Committee before or on Friday, 27 May 2022:

Written report on the progress made on the development of the Critical Infrastructure Protection Act Regulations and when it will be brought to the Committee for consideration.
Implementation plan for Safer Cities, including how technology will be leveraged to achieve the outcomes.
Copy of the Implementation Plan of the District Development Plan (DDM).
Copy of the SAPS 2022/23 and 2023/24 training schedule and training models.
Copy of the Forensic Investigation conducted by the SAPS Internal Audit Division on the causative factors leading to delays in the construction of police stations.

Note: The reports will be available on request from the Committee Secretary.

9.Conclusion

The Committee is grateful for the interaction with the Minister, the Deputy National Minister and the National Commissioner and his team to bring the required co-operation in this time and their contributions are valued. However, much more must be done by the Department to win back public trust in public policing.

The Committee will continue to monitor the SAPS implementation of its APP and Strategic Plan together with its budget spending. The Portfolio Committee on Police supports the budget of the Department of Police for 2022/23 and recommends that the Budget Vote 28 be adopted.

The DA, ACDP and EFF reserved its rights with respect to the adoption of the report.

Report to be considered.

Documents