This shocking statistic was revealed by the Police minister Nathi Mthethwa in a statement issued by the Ministry of Police.
“Reaching this milestone was critical for us, as this was a very complex and painstaking exercise, which entailed the assessment of individual members’ records.
“The process began two years ago, and included auditing of all SAPS employees, those employed under SAPS Act and Public Service Act.”
In the statement, Mthethwa says the audit had taken longer than expected, because the ministry wanted to ensure it was done thorough.
“It entailed thorough processing of statistical data, cross-checking against the Crime Information System, personnel human resource files and finger printing.
Mthethwa says the next step is for the National Commissioner of Police, Gen Riah Phiyega, to act on the outcome of the audit.
“I have now instructed her and the management team that feedback on action should be provided to me by the end of October this year,” he says.
Minister Mthethwa indicated that the audit process revealed serious challenges with regard to management of discipline within the department.
It was against this backdrop that he instructed the officials to develop a long-term strategy on matters of discipline and related matters, which they are busy with.
“I wish to sincerely thank the team – SAPS as well as the Civilian Secretariat for Police – that worked very hard and meticulously to ensure that this audit was completed.
“The process going forward will require even more dedication.”
He said that going forward there would be a legal process, “Where everyone will be given an opportunity to state his or her side of the story”.
“That said, our resolve to root out any unwanted elements within the police will never be deterred by anything, no matter how long and what it takes,” concludes Mthethwa.
