Police unions are in full support of the move to roll out body cameras to officers as early as April 1, saying it would provide crucial evidence, protect officers from false allegations, and boost accountability in the police service.
Minister of Police Senzo Mchunu announced this week in a Parliamentary session that the South African Police Service (SAPS) will begin using body cameras.
During the initial phase, the SAPS plans to procure 100 body cameras, with each unit costing approximately R29 000. The total investment for the rollout amounts to nearly R2.88 million for the first year and is projected to reach R14.4 million over the next five years.
The Independent Policing Union of South Africa called earlier this month for body cameras to be given to police officers. In a statement, the union said all law enforcement officers should be equipped with body cameras as it:
- Protects officers from false accusations
- Provides crucial evidence for fair investigations
- Ensures accountability in police conduct
The Police and Prisons Civil Rights Union (Popcru), through its president Thulani Ngwenya, also voiced support for the initiative, stating: “As Popcru, we are for every technological advance that will empower police in doing their work. Body cams will also assist in capturing evidence that would yield fruitful results when they have to present evidence in the court of law.”
Mzamo Billy, DA’s parliamentary member of the Select Committee on Security and Justice, indicated that this will help strengthen public confidence in the police while also protecting officers from false accusations.
The Independent Police Investigative Directorate’s 2023/2024 annual report showed that there were 460 deaths as a result of police action, 79 cases of corruption and 110 rapes cases opened against the police.
“The use of body cameras is a vital tool for enhancing trust in policing. It also helps prevent frivolous claims and lawsuits against officers,” said Mzamo.
Mzamo also expressed concern over the costs associated with the rollout, noting that each body camera costs no less than R29,000 and that the target of only 100 cameras per year is insufficient to effectively combat crime.
“Although the high cost is a concern, the value for money from this initiative can be easily realised if implemented transparently and efficiently. While this is a positive step, given that there are nearly 179,000 police officers in South Africa, the deployment of only 100 body-worn cameras this year is insufficient and could delay the full benefits of this initiative,” he added.