SAPS faces more than 4,000 claims of wrongful arrest, costing R2 billion in settling civil cases. RISE Mzansi has now called for accountability.
More than 4,000 wrongful arrests were registered by the South African Police Service (SAPS) in the 2023/24 financial year, leading to claims exceeding R2 billion.
This was revealed by Police Minister Senzo Mchunu in response to a written parliamentary question from RISE Mzansi.
Mchunu disclosed that 4,135 wrongful arrests had been registered, averaging around 11 incidents each day.
The claims associated with these arrests total R2,241,082,675. While the minister noted that this figure does not necessarily represent the final amount to be paid to claimants, he did not provide further details on the reasons behind the arrests or potential payouts.
Rise Mzansi’s National Assembly caucus whip Makashule Gana expressed concern over these figures, pointing out that wrongful arrests damage the public's trust in the police.
He emphasised the need for accountability and transparency within SAPS.
"I will raise this matter with the Minister and National Commissioner, General Fannie Masemola, when they next appear before the Portfolio Committee on Police, so that specific cases can be referred to; to ascertain whether wrongful arrests are a problem within the police and why they happen; and for a breakdown of claims paid out,“ Gana said.
Gana also urged for a full breakdown of the claims that have been paid out and stressed the importance of addressing the issue within the Portfolio Committee to prevent further erosion of trust in the police.
"Wrongful arrests erode the trust between the public and the police, it is therefore important to understand this phenomenon in full by putting the matter on the Portfolio Committee’s agenda and for it to intervene where necessary," he added.
This matter highlights the need for stronger oversight and accountability within SAPS to ensure that officers act ethically and uphold public confidence in the law enforcement system.
The party said the public will now be watching for actions from the Portfolio Committee on Police to address the issue and restore faith in the force.
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