Only 5% of South African police officers accused of murder and rape face prosecution

BUILD One South Africa (BOSA) has raised alarm over what it calls a “shocking collapse of accountability” within law enforcement after new data revealed that fewer than 5% of police officers accused of murder and rape have been referred for prosecution.

- WENDY DONDOLO

According to a written parliamentary reply by Acting Minister of Police Firoz Cachalia, the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) had 14 907 open misconduct cases involving South African Police Service (SAPS) officers as of May 31.

These included 1 486 deaths linked to police action and 97 cases of rape allegedly committed by police officers.

BOSA spokesperson Roger Solomons said the statistics paint a disturbing picture of police abuse and a justice system failing victims.

"Each of the almost 15 000 open misconduct cases reflects a violation of citizens’ rights by those sworn to uphold the law," Solomons said.