The IFP in KwaZulu-Natal demands that files which consist of misconduct complaints against officers and documents created during investigations be disclosed to the public following claims that KwaMakhutha SAPS members, South of Durban failed to attend to a reported female rape case in Adams Mission.
“The tendency of police officials to downplay the seriousness of these crimes makes it less likely that women will file complaints and will contribute to the underreporting of cases of violence against women. Those personnel who fail to do their jobs must be held accountable. It is highly disturbing that police officers who are supposed to protect members of the public can behave in such a manner. We have called for greater accountability measures but police management seems to be failing to deal with misconduct within the police force,” said IFP Leader in the KZN Legislature, Mr Blessed Gwala, MPL.
“Police officers who fail to serve with integrity must be fired and competent police officers recruited. The tendency of some police officer’s who only care about their monthly salaries and about driving state cars whilst not attending to their duties, must come to an end. It is this kind of attitude that undermines public confidence in the police. The honeymoon in the SAPS cannot go on forever if we are serious about protecting our people,” continued Mr Gwala.
“Authorities must conduct a thorough and impartial investigation into the alleged misconduct of police officials. The IPID which is supposed to be the spearhead of accountability measures must eradicate this culture of impunity for police misconduct and criminality,” concluded Mr Gwala.
