Body and dashboard cameras: DA calls on SAPS to follow Cape Town’s example

5 September 2023

The DA commends the City of Cape Town for its proactive approach in implementing cutting-edge safety technology. In a stark contrast to the national Police Department's empty promises, the City has taken concrete steps by equipping its law enforcement officers with body-worn cameras and in-vehicle cameras featuring Automated Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) technology.

For years, the DA has advocated for the urgent nationwide implementation of body cameras to address police brutality. During a recent Police Portfolio Committee meeting, the DA reiterated the crucial role that body cameras play in promoting transparency and curbing misconduct.

Minister Cele has promised body worn cameras for SAPS officers since 2019 but to date not a single body worn camera has been procured.

Contrast Minister Cele’s broken promise with the fact that 800 Western Cape law enforcement officers now have body cameras and 290 dashcams are in place, and it is clear to see that DA governments get things done.

We strongly urge the national government to emulate the City of Cape Town's proactive approach and swiftly adopt this advanced technology.

Transparency is a cornerstone in establishing a professional and trustworthy police service that South Africa rightfully deserves. Furthermore, there is compelling evidence indicating a decrease in attacks on law enforcement officers following the introduction of these cameras, making their adoption all the more imperative.

Issued by Andrew Whitfield, DA Shadow Minister of Police, 5 September 2023