Police Minister Senzo Mchunu has confirmed that physique cameras can be rolled out to South African Police Service (SAPS) members beginning this 12 months.
The challenge goals to extend police transparency and accountability, bettering public belief in police officers.
Mchunu revealed that the primary cameras could be launched on 1 April 2025, amid stress from the Democratic Alliance (DA) in Parliament.
Police Minister confirms physique digital camera roll out
Responding to questions posed by the DA, Mchunu confirmed efforts to supply police officers with physique cameras.
“SAPS is committed to enhancing transparency and accountability within its operations through the deployment of body-worn cameras,” Mchunu commented.
The minister defined that 100 body-worn cameras can be procured at a value of round R29 000 every, with the whole price for 2025 being R2 881 800. Over the following 5 years, procurement prices alone are anticipated to be within the area of R14.4 million.
DA welcomes transfer in the direction of police transparency
DA parliamentary member for the choose committee on safety and justice, Mzamo Billy, says it is a optimistic transfer in the direction of police transparency in South Africa.
The DA member of Parliament (MP) known as upon Mchunu to prioritise the pressing implementation of this challenge and supply correct coaching for officers. Nevertheless, the celebration helps the challenge.
“The DA does believe the use of body cameras is vital for enhancing transparency, accountability and public trust in policing.” DA MP Mzamo Billy
Furthermore, Mzamo defined that body-worn cameras would shield police officials towards claims of corruption or negligence.
“We do believe it’s a vital tool to also support police officers on the ground to avoid frivolous claims and lawsuits by malicious individuals.” Says Mzamo
Concerns over excessive danger of cameras being misplaced, stolen
While the DA helps the initiative, issues stay in regards to the restricted rollout of solely 100 cameras initially. Mzamo Billy warned that this might expose this system to dangers of loss or theft.
“To ensure that these valuable resources are not lost, damaged, or stolen, it is crucial that an effective asset management plan is put in place. At only 100 cameras a year, the risk of this initiative being undermined by preventable losses is high. Without proper tracking and accountability measures, the rollout could be whittled away to almost none within a few years.” Mzamo cautioned.
What do you are feeling can be achieved by SAPS officers carrying physique cameras?
Let us know by leaving a remark under, or ship a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1. Subscribe to The South African web site’s newsletters and observe us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X and Bluesky for the most recent information.