The Gauteng Provincial Legislature’s Portfolio Committee on Community Safety has called for stricter accountability measures within the South African Police Service (SAPS) following alarming findings related to misconduct and non-compliance with domestic violence laws.
The call comes after approximately 97 SAPS members nationwide were accused of sexual violence, raising fresh concerns about discipline and oversight within the police service.
During oversight visits to several police stations across Gauteng, the committee found that none were fully compliant with the Domestic Violence Act. The committee described the situation as deeply troubling, warning that failures in compliance place vulnerable victims at further risk.
Committee spokesperson Thebe Khumalo said adherence to the legislation is mandatory.
“The committee reaffirms that compliance with the Domestic Violence Act is non-negotiable,” he said.
Khumalo added that the committee would strengthen its oversight role and engage directly with SAPS leadership and other oversight bodies to enforce corrective action.
“The committee will intensify its oversight, engage further with SAPS leadership and relevant oversight bodies, and pursue accountability measures to ensure that police stations comply with both the letter and the spirit of the law. The protection of victims of domestic violence remains an absolute priority for the Gauteng Provincial Legislature,” he said.
The committee has indicated that further inspections and follow-ups will be conducted to ensure improvements are implemented signalling that this time, excuses may not pass the charge office.