'SAPS disciplinary system is broken' - Cachalia

DURING a parliamentary session, Acting Minister of Police Professor Firoz Cachalia admitted that the SAPS disciplinary system is broken and needed urgent review.

- GENEVIEVE SERRA

This admission came after questions were raised regarding the suspension of two police officers who were caught with a stolen patrol car containing drugs and alcohol.

Cachalia confirmed that the first constable was dismissed for possession of narcotics, while the second constable received a one-month suspension without pay. Both officers were also suspended for one month for being in possession of an employer's property.

"The SAPS should deal with discipline and sanction in a more consistent manner," he said. "The Minister has therefore identified the need to review the SAPS Disciplinary Regulations of 2016 with a view to addressing loopholes and weaknesses that create a public perception that SAPS is not serious about disciplinary matters, particularly issues of ethics and integrity."