AfriForum demands clarity about taxpayer costs and number of unlawful arrests by SAPS

31 July 2023

The civil rights organisation AfriForum submitted a formal application in terms of the Promotion of Access to Information Act (PAIA) to all nine provincial heads of the South African Police Service (SAPS). The organisation is requesting information about the number of unlawful arrests performed by SAPS members in the last five years, as well as how much money is being spent on legal fees to defend these members and the settlement costs paid to victims.

AfriForum’s legal team is specifically asking for a record of all legal costs incurred in litigating each case, and a summary of the cumulative legal costs incurred in litigating against all unlawful arrest and unlawful detention cases.

“Unfortunately, there are SAPS members who don’t seem to know when they are supposed to perform arrests and when not to. Now the taxpayer is again footing the bill for the incompetence of certain officials,” says Jacques Broodryk, AfriForum’s spokesperson for Community Safety.

This request for access to information comes at a pivotal time, as incidents of police brutality in South Africa are on the rise. Transparency about the nature and frequency of these incidents is integral to addressing this problem. By shedding light on the severity of the situation, it helps to pave the way for systemic changes that are necessary to protect the rights of South African citizens.

AfriForum is taking a strong stand against police brutality through this request for information. The organisation’s action enforces accountability and underscores their ongoing commitment to uphold justice. This move serves as a significant step towards a more transparent and accountable South Africa.

Issued by Jacques Broodryk, Spokesperson: Community Safety, AfriForum, 31 July 2023