MEC Allen Requests Investigation into SAPS’ Handling of Protests
Following the devastating and violent protests in Swellendam on August 16 and September 20, 2023, MEC Reagen Allen took decisive action by asking the Western Cape Police Ombudsman (WCPO) to examine the South African Police Service (SAPS) with respect to various issues concerning their operations and deployment. These incidents led to substantial damages to public infrastructure and widespread looting of shops, calling into question the readiness and competence of SAPS in managing such situations.
The choice to involve the WCPO is an important step toward comprehending and addressing SAPS’ perceived inadequacies during the Swellendam protests. The WCPO was created under the Western Cape Community Safety Act of 2013 and is a distinct organization that aims to improve the effectiveness and efficiency of police services. Furthermore, the WCPO strives to enhance relations between the police and communities by examining complaints of police inefficiency and breakdowns in relations between the police and any given community.
MEC Allen’s request for an investigation centers on three primary concerns: SAPS’ use of crime intelligence, the promptness and sufficiency of their response and resources, and the visibility and presence of Public Order Policing Services (POPS). A thorough examination of these aspects will offer a deeper understanding of SAPS’ readiness and capabilities during the Swellendam protests.
Evaluating SAPS’ Crime Intelligence and Response
Authorities possessed sufficient information, including the anticipated number of protesters, implying that SAPS should have been more prepared to prevent and control the events that unfolded during the protests. The inability to do so raises doubts about the effectiveness of their crime intelligence and overall strategy.
The second focus of the investigation pertains to the sufficiency and promptness of SAPS’ response and resources. A quick and efficient response could have lessened the damage caused during the protests. The millions of rands worth of damage to public infrastructure and looted stores indicate that law enforcement was not effective in its operations.
Finally, the visibility and presence of Public Order Policing Services (POPS) during the protests might have been crucial in averting violence and property destruction. The presence of a robust law enforcement team might have discouraged protesters from engaging in violent actions and maintained order throughout the event.
Enhancing Police Service and Fostering Community Relations
The adverse impact of the Swellendam protests on the municipality’s functionality and ability to address service-related issues is troubling. Identifying and addressing the weaknesses in SAPS’ approach to managing the protests will be critical in preventing similar occurrences in the future.
While the right to protest is acknowledged in South Africa’s Constitution, violating others’ rights and destroying essential public infrastructure is not allowed. Ensuring that those responsible for the damages are held criminally liable and subject to civil claims is a crucial step in maintaining accountability and deterring future violent protests.
The WCPO’s investigation will play a vital role in pinpointing the gaps in SAPS’ operations during the Swellendam protests and suggesting appropriate measures to improve their efficiency and effectiveness. In doing so, the ombudsman will not only enhance the police service but also promote better relations between the police and the communities they protect.
MEC Allen’s decision to engage the WCPO reflects a commitment to addressing SAPS’ purported inadequacies and ensuring the safety and well-being of the communities affected by the Swellendam protests. The outcome of this investigation will undoubtedly provide valuable insights and contribute to the ongoing efforts to improve the police service in the Western Cape and beyond.
