Tag Archives: The Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Police

Concerns regarding discrepancies in case involving the arrest of ‘armed’ suspects   

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By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

25 September 2025 – The Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Police, Ian Cameron, today expressed serious concerns regarding significant discrepancies in the case involving the arrest of suspects allegedly found in possession of high-calibre firearms in Cape Town earlier this week. Cameron said according to the initial report issued by the South African Police Service (SAPS), eight suspects were arrested during a raid on Monday.

He further said the police also seized six AK-47 rifles, eight pistols and ammunition. Cameron added that, however, it is alleged that the official docket only records six suspects, six rifles and six pistols.

“While the arrest of suspects for possession of illegal firearms is welcomed, particularly in the context of the alleged intended use of these weapons, it is deeply concerning that official information reflects only six suspects and six pistols. This is clearly inconsistent with the SAPS’s original report.

“We noted that information now shows that suspects have been released without clarity on who authorised the release or the status of the confiscated firearms. These developments undermine public confidence in the police, particularly in crime-affected areas such as the Cape Flats,” he said.

Cameron said it is unacceptable that SAPS initially announced the arrest of eight suspects and the seizure of eight pistols, yet two suspects and two pistols are now unaccounted for in the official record. He said this kind of discrepancy, or worse, possible tampering, raises serious questions about accountability and transparency within the SAPS.

“These raise concern about the regulation of security companies’ access to firearms amid allegations that rogue security companies arm criminals, including hitmen. We will urgently seek clarification from the SAPS on who authorised the release of the suspects?

“We need clarity on where the missing two pistols are, are all firearms from the operation accounted for? Also, what measures are being taken to ensure accurate, reliable and transparent reporting by SAPS? The Cape Flats continues to endure violent crime, gang-related killings and mass shootings,” said Cameron.

He said the public cannot be expected to place their confidence in law enforcement, if inconsistencies and a lack of follow-through mar such serious cases. Cameron reaffirmed the committee’s commitment to ensuring accountability and transparency within SAPS and the broader Justice, Crime Prevention and Security Cluster.

“The committee will also engage SAPS leadership to ensure this matter is addressed with the urgency it demands. Efforts to remove illegal firearms from our streets are critical, but those efforts must be undertaken with integrity.

“When discrepancies like this arise, they threaten to undo the very progress we aim to make,” he said.

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Inherent challenge of trust in the police a concern

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By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

26 August 2025 – The Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Police, Ian Cameron said he has noted Statistics South Africa’s release of the Governance, Public Safety and Justice Survey 2024/25, which highlights the worrying and inherent trust deficit between the South African Police Service (SAPS) and the broader community.

Cameron said it is worrying that it is estimated that only about 43% (43,4%) of households that experienced house-breaking in the 2024/25 financial year reported some or all incidents to the police and that about 51% (51,3%) of households that experienced home robbery reported some or all incidents to the police.

He further said this is a worrying low number of reported incidents to the police and points to an inherent trust deficit. Cameron added that, while these challenges are evident in the high police-to-population ratio and the perennial lack of tools of trade, such as vehicles, the SAPS should use the statistics to enhance their efforts and adopt a data-driven approach to policing.

“The most common crime consistently experienced by South Africans is housebreaking/burglary/robbery. The South African Police Service must do more to enhance visible policing, especially in hotspot areas, to ensure a feeling of safety, especially in their homes.

“The increase in sexual offences is also a point of concern. It is worrying that Stats SA reported that about 132 000 individuals experienced sexual offences over the past five years, an increase of 13.8%,” he said.

Cameron said in its recent visit to KwaZulu-Natal at the South African Police Service (SAPS) Forensic Science Laboratory division, the committee highlighted concerns around processing DNA samples to ensure effective prosecution of GBV cases. He said the increase in cases highlights for the SAPS the need to urgently resolve the matter to ensure that perpetrators are brought to book.

“The only deterrence against GBV is effective prosecution. It is also worrying that the proportion of adults aged 16 and older who felt safe walking alone in their neighbourhoods during the day declined from 85% in 2020/21 to 80,4% in 2023/24, before edging up slightly to 81% in 2024/25, pointing to declining perceptions of safety.

“The visible policing is important, especially at night, where only 36,1% adults feel safe in the 2024/25 financial year. While we acknowledge SAPS’s shortcomings in resolving the current crime challenge, he has also called for a broader societal reflection on how, as a society, we can contribute to efforts to fight crime,” said Cameron.

He said it is important that they adopt a whole-of-society approach to fight crime, either by sharing information with police or establishing functional community policing forums to enhance collaboration in the fight against crime. Cameron said the police cannot do it alone.

“The committee intends to interact with Statistics South Africa and SAPS on the general crime statistics, especially the misalignment between the SAPS’s crime statistics and the perception on the ground, as revealed in the Stats SA survey,” he said.    

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Directive from NA Speaker’s Office on Mkhwanazi’s allegations

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Picture: Kwazulu Natal Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi

By BAKANG MOKOTO

9 July 2025- The Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Police, Ian Cameron said he has received the directive from the Speaker of the National Assembly, Thoko Didiza, mandating three committees to consider, on an urgent basis, in terms of their respective mandates, the wide-ranging allegations regarding security matters that have implications for the country’s national security made by the Kwazulu Natal Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi and then report to the National Assembly(NA).

“The mandate is clear and the committee will endeavour to urgently conclude the necessary processes to determine the parameters, format and structure of the envisaged process.

“But of utmost importance is the need for urgency in finalising modalities to set the process in motion. To this end, a legal opinion, which has already been requested, is necessary to ascertain the best possible approach,” he said.

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A slap on the wrist for police officer caught transporting drugs

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Picture: A police officer guilty of transporting drugs/Generic

By REGINALD KANYANE

24 June 2025 – The Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Police, Ian Cameron said is dumbfounded by the decision to overturn the sanction to dismiss a member of the South African Police Service (SAPS), who was caught transporting drugs to a mere two-month suspension.

According to Cameron, the decision is not only illogical but it tarnishes the reputation of the SAPS.

He said: “We have over the past few weeks, questioned the SAPS leadership on its commitment to their disciplinary code, the law and commitment to law-abiding South Africans. This decision spews on the face of all South Africans who hope that the SAPS would always act in their best interest and in the service to protect the people.

“At face value, the decision confirms a perception that the police would go to the far extremes in protecting their own irrespective of the crime committed.”

Cameron further said this case demonstrates a general trend of lack of meaningful consequences against rogue, corrupt and criminal elements within the SAPS. He added that, the question is, how will SAPS ever overturn the state of trust deficit that this police entity is experiencing when such cases are treated with impunity and no due regard from senior management.

“This decision is illogical on many fronts, but the two most important is the criminality involved as well as the unilateral power given to senior management to reverse the decision.

“Firstly, South Africa, and the Cape Flats in the Western Cape are struggling with a high rate of substance abuse and gang-related murders. The fact that the officer was caught transporting drugs using a marked police vehicle with a known gangster as a passenger, renders the assurances that SAPS is working hard to combat drug trafficking and gangsterism in the Cape Flats mythical,” said Cameron.

He said furthermore, the arrest of this officer disproves the claim by the Western Cape Provincial Commissioner that the SAPS are making inroads in combating gangs when police themselves are involved in gangsterism. Cameron said it is unacceptable that the Western Cape Provincial Head can suggest that the employer/employee relationship has not irrevocably broken down when the officer in question was caught breaking the law.

“The SAPS leadership have on numerous occasions assured the committee that they will dismiss any errant officers, but their actions are inconsistent with this assurance. As a result of this irrational decision, the committee will invite the Minister of Police, the National Commissioner and the Western Cape Provincial Commissioner to account for the reversal of the initial sanction.

“The committee will not be complicit in the clear breaking of the law. Such impunity must never be tolerated. The envisaged meeting will broadly interrogate the framework of the SAPS disciplinary code, its effectiveness, and the number of police officers criminally charged who have been cleared in internal disciplinary processes,” he said.

Cameron said they repeat that rogue police officers have no place in the service and they must be removed urgently.

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Mass Grade Progression Within SAPS Ranks

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Picture: The SAPS members during parade/Generic

By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

23 June 2025 – The Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Police, Ian Cameron said they welcome the announcement of the agreement reached between organised labour and the South African Police Service (SAPS) on grade progression at the Safety and Security Sectoral Bargaining Council. Cameron said the agreement is a commendable step in improving the working conditions of SAPS members, albeit in the short term.

“The committee has been steadfast in advocating for better conditions of service, as it contributes to maintaining the morale of the serving members. This is critical as officers are an important pillar in efforts to combat crime, and career stagnation as a result of the lack of a well-defined and budgeted grade progression scheme was unacceptable.

“According to the agreement, constables and sergeants with 11 plus years of service by 31 March 2025, will progress to the next rank from 1 December 2025. And Warrant Officers on notch 14 and 15 of Band B1 on 31 March 2025, will move from Band B1 to B2 on 1 December 2025,” he said.

Cameron further said, while the committee acknowledges the fiscal pressures facing all government departments, it remains of the view that career stagnation can be avoided through proper planning and foresight. He added that it is unacceptable that SAPS management enlists recruits without a clear plan for the lifecycle of the employee.

“This omission exposes limited planning and stop-gap measures that are not forward-looking. As a result, the committee will demand a comprehensive, long-term Human Resources strategy.

“Promotions must be predictable, transparent, and budgeted for, especially for career officers who hold the line in high-pressure roles,” said Cameron.  

He said the strategy must include comprehensive promotion forecasting and workforce planning, budget impact and sustainability, morale and retention plans for members affected by stagnation in ranks. Cameron emphasised that plans to professionalise the SAPS as demanded by the National Development Plan cannot be achieved, if experienced and committed members are treated as an afterthought by the SAPS.

“Meanwhile, the committee received a revised briefing on the 2025/26 annual performance plan and the 2025-2030 strategic plan. The committee commends the SAPS for internalising the recommendations by the committee and amendments to come as vital key performance areas.

“For example, the revision of the target of obtaining buccal samples from schedule 8 arrested offenders from 94.87% to 100% to bring it in line with the DNA Act, is welcomed as the previous target represented the undermining of an act of Parliament,” he said.

Cameron said also, the detection rate for extortions has been increased to 60%, which will give an impetus to the growing trend of extortions. He said it is critical that this target is revised as extortions continue to choke businesses to death impacting on job creation and economic activity.

“Furthermore, as Gender-Based Violence (GBV) continues to ravage the country, the increased target for contact crimes against women and children is appreciated.

“The committee has recommitted itself to monitoring the implementation of the revised targets to ensure that people receive quality services,” said Cameron.

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Cameron welcomes collaboration between DPWI and SAPS

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Picture: The Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Police, Ian Cameron

By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

10 May 2025 – The Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Police, Ian Cameron, welcomes the announcement of the initiation of discussions between the Ministers of Department of Public Works and Infrastructure (DPWI) and the South African Police Service (SAPS) on how the DPWI can better support the police. Cameron said the initiation of interactions on a ministerial level is critical as it positively responds to recommendations by the portfolio committee that the DPWI provides enhanced support to SAPS.

He further said this was based on the deplorable conditions that members are exposed to at station level, which negatively impacts the overall morale and appetite to combat crime. Cameron added that, is cognisant of fiscal challenges currently facing all government departments, but remains of the view that there are low-hanging fruits that the DPWI can address to improve working conditions of SAPS.

“For example, the issue of maintenance is crucial and the removal of bureaucratic impediments that delay implementation should be resolved. Also, we highlighted the need for better project management in development projects for police stations.

“For example, it is unacceptable that building a police station takes 12 years, similar to the delays experienced in Vuwani, Limpopo. While we acknowledged the meeting as instructive, we emphasised that what is needed is the actual implementation of resolutions that arise out of the engagement,” said Cameron.

He said the implementation has always been a drawback in South Africa and they hope that this engagement will lead to faster implementation of interventions. Camerona said the committee will await tangible and actionable plans on how the DPWI will improve its services to the SAPS to enable the committee to monitor implementation.

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Eight SAPS VIP Protection Unit allegedly assaulted citizens on N1 road acquitted

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Picture: The SAPS VIP Unit allegedly assaulting citizens on N1 road

By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

6 May 2025– The Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Police, Ian Cameron, has learned with shock and dismay of the acquittal, in a South African Police Service (SAPS) internal disciplinary process, of the eight members of the SAPS VIP Protection Unit, who were charged with assaulting a civilian on the N1.

Cameron said it is of the considered view that the ruling is shameful, indefensible and immoral. He further said the acquittal of the members is not only a miscarriage of justice, but also puts the name and image of the SAPS into disrepute.

“Furthermore, this decision strengthens the public perception of SAPS officers being and acting above the law. This decision lacks legal and moral justification and should be reconsidered.

“With the worsening trust deficit between the police and communities, such decisions will further erode the low levels of trust that exist between the police and the people,” said Cameron.

He added that, the ruling entrenches the long-held committee’s view that internal disciplinary mechanisms within SAPS are inadequate and rewards rogue officers. Cameron also said, this decision will further cement the public’s perception of a complete disregard of consequence management within the SAPS.

“This case was an instance of “a thief being caught with the stolen goods”, as there was clear evidence from footage showing the perpetrators kicking a defenceless civilian while brandishing high-calibre firearms.

“The portfolio committee had previously raised concerns about the slow pace of the disciplinary process, but the decision reached today gives the impression of a badly performed tick-box exercise,” he said.

Cameron said this decision sends a wrong message to all South Africans about the lack of recourse when SAPS members abuse their authority. He said it also portrays a SAPS that lacks compassion and care for victims of abuse, one that is preoccupied with protecting each other and not the citizens.

“In addition, the role played by labour unions in stalling the case has undermined due process. This was not due process, but weaponised bureaucracy funded by taxpayers. What is even more infuriating is that the SAPS paid an amount of over R112 000 just for the Chairperson’s expense, which should be classified as fruitless and wasteful expenditure.

“As a result, I will, on behalf of the committee, write to the Minister of Police and the National Commissioner to demand an explanation from the Minister of Police for this outcome, on behalf of the nation and for the victims,” said Cameron.

He said the committee will, for its part, consider legislative reforms to end the abuse of internal processes in SAPS and to limit the obstructive role of unions in misconduct cases. Cameron said they cannot accept a SAPS that protects thugs in uniform.

“We will not sit silently, while the rule of law is trampled upon behind closed doors,” he said.

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Police applauded for seizing 155 illegal firearms  

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Picture: The illegal firearms destroyed by the police

By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

12 March 2025 – The Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Police, Ian Cameron said he sincerely welcomed the information that the South African Police Service (SAPS) has, through intelligence-led operations across the country, seized 155 illegal firearms over the past week.

Cameron said while 155 illegal firearms represent a drop in the ocean in the context of the scourge of illegal firearms that continue to be in circulation, the seizure is testament to the realisation by the SAPS of this ongoing challenge and a tangible proof that action is being taken to remedy this scourge.

He further said the seizures show the value of disruptive and intelligence-led operations in the fight against crime. Cameron added that, it is worth highlighting that, until the SAPS optimally utilises the might and prowess of the intelligence services, these small victories will not gather momentum and create the necessary ripple effect needed to stop crime and criminality.

“Furthermore, while it is commendable that 14 165 suspects were arrested, these arrests will remain meaningless if they are not followed up with effective criminal prosecution and incarceration.

“Illegal firearms continue to be the leading weapon of choice for violent crime in the country and concerted effort must be made to remove them from our streets. This cannot continue to be a talking point; action is long overdue,” he said.

Cameron also congratulated the Western Cape police for ensuring the seizure of 38 handguns in the province. He said in a province hugely affected by gang violence and wanton killing, the removal of these firearms has contributed to the saving of life. 

“We commended the SAPS Anti-Kidnapping Task Team for rescuing an Ethiopian businessman from a kidnapping ring in Johannesburg. The upward trend in kidnappings requires decisive intervention and capacitation of the Anti-Kidnapping Task Team is one way of tackling the scourge and ensuring safety and security for all.

“I believe that the rescue will highlight the SAPS’ willingness to uproot this scourge wherever it rears its head,” said Cameron.

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Portfolio Committee shocked after a woman set alight

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By REGINALD KANYANE

27 November 2024 – The Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Police, Ian Cameron said he has learned with shock and sadness of the passing of Rudzani Lutendo Phophi, who was attacked, robbed and set alight in Makhado, Limpopo. Cameron said the death of Phophi, highlights once again the propensity and utter disregard against women in this country.

He further said it highlights why women and children feel less secure in the country. Cameron added that this abhorrent crime is an indictment on the society, which is prone to violent acts that are devastating to the collective consciousness.

“Phophi was subjected to a brutal attack on the night of 19 September 2024, and succumbed to her severe injuries. While we welcomed the arrest of the two suspects connected to the attack, it is important to focus on investigations to ensure that the family receives justice.

“While the arrest and successful conviction will not bring Phophi back, it will go a long way in asserting the might of the law and highlighting that South Africa does not tolerate such heinous acts of crime,” said Cameron.

He said as the country participates in the 16 Days of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children, the country must heighten its activism to revitalise commitments and actively champion the call for an end to Gender-Based Violence (GBV).

Cameron said it is unacceptable that women are subjected to violence and abuse, and most are killed by brazen murders with no regard for life and the dignity of women.

“These crimes are devastating not only to the families, but to the entire country. The Portfolio Committee on Police urges the SAPS to do more to protect women and children. However, the community must also play an active role in these efforts,” he said.

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‘Mass killings in SA highlight inadequacies with SAPS’s Intelligence unit’

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Picture: The police officers during parade

By BAKANG MOKOTO

25 October 2023 – The Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Police, Ian Cameron said he is concerned by the continued increase in mass murders in South Africa, which highlights inadequacies within the South African Police’s Crime Intelligence unit.

Cameron’s comments follow the two recent mass killings in the Western Cape, where seven people were killed in Bishop Lavis on Thursday and five people were killed in Atlantis.

“The increase in mass killings in the Eastern Cape and Western Cape point to the need to capacitate the crime intelligence services both with funding and human capital that will enable the unit to proactively prevent these crimes from happening.

“The committee has consistently stressed the need to properly capacitate the intelligence and detective units as they are potent tools that can be used in the fight against crime,” he said.

Cameron further said the committee has reiterated the need for collaboration with provincial and local governments to ensure that these spheres put in place focused strategies to deal with emerging crime trends in their communities. He added that it is for this reason that they wholeheartedly welcomed the intentions of the Draft National Policing Policy, which highlighted the importance of collaboration and these murders provide an opportunity to share investigative capacity.

“Also, the formation and training of specialised units to tackle crimes like gang violence in the Western Cape should be considered. The increase in mass murders provides an opportunity to implement several safer cities initiatives, which were signed between the SAPS and provincial and local governments.

“The signed agreement has established the necessary framework to fight crime. It is now time to activate the plans and ensure that criminality is confronted head-on,” said Cameron.

He also called for the SAPS to leave no stone unturned in investigating these mass shootings and bringing the perpetrators to justice.

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