Acting Police Minister Firoz Cachalia says firm action will be taken against police officers accused of criminal conduct, including suspensions and dismissals where wrongdoing is proven.
Speaking on concerns about corruption within the South African Police Service, Cachalia stressed that allegations particularly those involving bribery, must be thoroughly investigated and addressed without hesitation.
He said officers facing serious disciplinary or criminal charges could be placed on punitive suspension while investigations are underway, warning that those found guilty would lose their jobs.
“There are disciplinary allegations of misconduct, and whether allegations of criminal misconduct and in the latter, I think there is a case for suspension, punitive suspensions and certainly if a case is proven, members guilty of criminal conduct have to be fired,” Cachalia said.
The minister added that he has seen reports and videos circulating on social media allegedly showing officers accepting bribes, but emphasised that these claims must first be verified through formal investigations.
“I’ve seen evidence on social media, but those matters have to be investigated,” he said.
Cachalia’s remarks come amid growing public scrutiny over police accountability, with authorities under pressure to clamp down on corruption and rebuild trust in law enforcement. He indicated that restoring integrity within the service remains a priority, a reminder that a badge is not a shield against consequences.