AfriForum calls for devolution of policing powers to address critical detective shortages
6 September 2024
The alarming shortage of detectives in the South African Police Service (SAPS), as revealed by Minister of Police Senzo Mchunu, underscores the urgent need for a strategic overhaul of the policing system. With a current shortfall of 8,594 detectives nationally, the situation is dire, particularly in provinces like KwaZulu-Natal, the Western Cape, and the Eastern Cape. AfriForum believes that the most effective solution lies in devolving policing powers to the municipal level, allowing for the employment of detectives in the same manner as Metro Police and Law Enforcement Advancement Programme (LEAP) officers.
Mchunu’s recent parliamentary response highlighted the critical gaps in the law enforcement framework, with over 50 detectives leaving their positions every month, often transitioning into the private sector. This trend exacerbates the existing shortage, leaving communities vulnerable and law enforcement stretched beyond its capacity.
Calls for improved working conditions and the SAPS to get its house in order in general, have fallen on deaf ears. In light of these challenges, AfriForum argues that the centralisation of police services is no longer tenable in a country grappling with such severe shortages and decades of mismanagement. Instead, devolving policing powers to local municipalities would enable more tailored, efficient, and responsive law enforcement. By employing detectives at the municipal level, similar to Metro Police and LEAP officers, we can ensure that local law enforcement agencies have the resources and personnel necessary to tackle crime effectively.
Some of the benefits of creating local detective units will be:
1. Localised response to crime: Municipalities are better positioned to understand the unique challenges and needs of their communities. Devolving powers would allow for a more localised and agile response to crime.
2. Improved community trust: Local detectives, employed to serve their specific communities, more likely to foster trust and cooperation between law enforcement and residents, crucial for effective crime prevention and resolution.
3. Enhanced accountability: With local oversight, there would be greater accountability and transparency in the performance and conduct of detectives, ensuring that the needs of the community are met.
“AfriForum calls on the national government of unity to take immediate steps towards the devolution of policing powers. We urge Parliament to consider legislative amendments that will empower municipalities to recruit and manage their own detective forces. The current centralized system is failing our communities, and without bold reform, the situation will only deteriorate further” says Jacques Broodryk, AfriForum’s Chief Spokesperson for Community Safety.
“As South Africa continues to face increasing crime rates and dwindling law enforcement capabilities, it is imperative that we explore innovative solutions that can bring about real change. Devolving policing powers to the municipal level is not just a necessary step; it is the most practical and effective way to ensure that our communities are safe, secure, and served by a law enforcement system that truly meets their needs,” Broodryk concludes.
Issued by Jacques Broodryk, Chief Spokesperson: Community Safety, AfriForum, 6 September 2024
