WATCH: New wheels for Hawks to enhance fight against organised crime
The Hawks received over 80 new vehicles, including armoured units, to improve mobility and response in fighting priority crimes.
The police ministry has, on September 9, ensured that the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI) is equipped with armoured vehicles to enhance and improve crime-fighting functions.
The DPCI, also known as the Hawks, received 84 vehicles; however, those handed out were 78 and 14 of them are armoured.
During the unveiling in Silverton, east of Pretoria, members of the Hawks were warned that the vehicles are intended solely for work, crime fighting, and serving the community, and not for personal or leisure use.
The event was presided over by the Deputy Minister of Police Cassel Mathale, joined by the provincial police heads and the Hawks acting national head.
These vehicles are intended to strengthen operations against serious and violent crimes, such as cash-in-transit robberies, police killings, and the dismantling of syndicates.
During the handover ceremony, Mathale said that the vehicles are generally essential policing tools and that without them, investigations are delayed. This delays justice and erodes community trust in law enforcement agencies.
He continued, saying the Hawks play a critical role in the investigation of national priority offences, namely, serious organised crime, serious corruption, and serious commercial crimes.
Mathale further stressed that resource constraints, especially in mobility, have a major negative impact on the efficiency and effectiveness of the DPCI.
“We therefore hope these vehicles will empower investigators and ensure they locate, record, and process the evidence timeously, and allow for consultation with relevant stakeholders, witnesses, and the prosecution,” he explained.
“These are not just cars, they symbolise the government’s commitment to resourcing the directorate. They are enablers of faster response, stronger investigations, and visible policing.
“When the time is right, then pounce and go for the kill, by ensuring that you present a watertight case that will stand the test in a court of law.”
He said that there is no doubt that some of the best men and women in the SAPS are part of the DCPI, and all of them want to work effectively and efficiently to achieve their objectives.
“We also are aware that for them to do so, the right tools and skill sets are required.”
Mathale continued, saying the ministry believes that giving tools to the directorate, despite the shrinking government purse, will improve response time.
He added that better vehicles will bring better reach, faster service, a stronger presence, and broaden the footprint of the DPCI throughout the country.
“This handover is a reflection of our commitment to improved service delivery through enhanced operational capacity of the DPCI.
“I’m confident that these new wheels will assist you to soar higher and bolster your fight against crime and corruption.
“However, it is your unwavering commitment, your professionalism and your passion for duty that truly make the difference. Use these vehicles responsibly, to protect the vulnerable and fight organised crime.”
Mathale closed by calling on the members to stay vigilant, disciplined, and committed to serving with integrity.
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