The Portfolio Committee on Police has mandated senior managers of SAPS to bolster training programmes for members, with a specific focus on adherence to the Domestic Violence Act 116 of 1998 (DVA).

This directive comes after the committee’s review of compliance with the act and grievances against SAPS members.

Highlighting the critical role of compliance in combating gender-based violence, the committee emphasised the lack thereof undermines these efforts.

The committee stressed the importance of enhancing training initiatives to equip police officers with the necessary skills for effectively reporting and investigating cases of domestic violence.

“It is unacceptable that in a country like South Africa, with abnormally high cases of domestic violence, there are still some members of the SAPS that are not compliant with the act.

“While there is a general improvement in the number of complaints received, complete compliance is non-negotiable, according to the committee,” says Nocks Seabi, the chairperson of the committee.

The SAPS and the Civilian Secretariat for Police Service briefed the committee on the period spanning from April 1 to September 30, 2023, during which a total of 60 complaints were lodged.

Among these, 50 cases pertained to the failure to complete both a SAPS 508(a) form (used for describing incidents of domestic violence) and the Domestic Violence Register [SAPS 508(b)].

Seven complaints involved instances where domestic violence incidents were not recorded in the occurrence pocket book, while two cases highlighted a failure to assist complainants in initiating a case.

The committee noted that measures have been taken, such as issuing verbal warnings and final written warnings.

However, the committee noted the importance of ongoing training for police officers to effectively handle domestic violence cases and adhere to legal requirements.

The committee also urged swift completion of departmental investigations to ensure accountability among members.

“It is alarming that 165 members of SAPS are accused to be perpetrators of domestic violence. How can we expect perpetrators to assist and protect the most vulnerable? This is unacceptable and urgent strategies must be developed and implemented to remedy this concern,” Seabi emphasises.

The committee also called for enhanced psychosocial support for members to help them cope with the violent environment in which they operate and raised concerns about the absence of victim-friendly rooms in 116 police stations.

Although the committee recognises efforts to address this issue, it underscores the importance of prioritising capital projects aimed at establishing these rooms.