Govt loses billions to unlawful arrests!

RISE Mzansi has raised concerns over the high number of wrongful arrest claims, which cost the SAPS over R2 billion in just one year.

According to RISE Mzansi Member of Parliament Makashule Gana, Minister of Police, Senzo Mchunu revealed that during the 2023/24 financial year, 4 135 incidents of wrongful arrest were registered with the SAPS.

Gana said this averages 11 cases of wrongful arrests registered with the police every day in the last financial year.

"Moreover, these cases carry claims worth R2 241 082 675. Although Mchunu has put forward the stipulation that this is not the amount that would potentially be paid to claimants, he offered no further explanation in his written reply," said Gana.

Gana further mentioned that he would raise the matter with Mchunu and National Commissioner, General Fannie Masemola during their next Portfolio Committee on Police appearance.

He aims to refer to specific cases to ascertain whether wrongful arrests are systemic within the police service, understand why they occur, and obtain a breakdown of paid-out claims.

"Wrongful arrests erode trust between the public and the police. It's therefore important to understand this phenomenon fully by putting the matter on the Portfolio Committee's agenda and for it to intervene where necessary."

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Gana stated that building a safe South Africa means the SAPS must execute its duties without fear, favour, or prejudice.

He said when they do wrong, they must be held accountable so everyone can have confidence in the women and men who work to keep them safe.

Responding to this, the minister of police spokeswoman, Kamogelo Mogotsi said Mchunu acknowledges the concerns raised regarding wrongful arrests and the over R2 billion in claims against the service.

"This is an undesirable situation, and the ministry is fully aware of a need for a thorough review of these incidents.

"The issue will be addressed as part of the agenda in an already scheduled meeting with Legal Services this coming Friday, when we will discuss necessary steps to ensure accountability and prevent further occurrences," Mogotsi said.

She added that the ministry was committed to improving efficiency and fairness of law enforcement practices.