The chairperson of the portfolio committee on police, Ian Cameron, has commended the dismissal of a senior instructor at the South African Police Service's (SAPS) Philippi Training Academy following allegations by a female trainee.

THE ALLEGED RAPE

According to the spokesperson for the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPD), Phaladi Shuping, it's alleged that on 31 March 2024, a police instructor at the academy called a female police trainee to his office. "She went to the office after she had several excuses in the past for not going to his office. The instructor allegedly locked the door once the complainant was inside and raped her. She was allowed to leave after the alleged rape, but she did not report the incident immediately," said Shuping. The official was arrested in April and has since been released on bail. 

EXPOSE THEM 

Cameron said this is a good start to rid SAPS of members exposing themselves to misconduct and crime. He said he has learned that the disciplinary process was concluded, which recommended the dismissal of the senior instructor. "The dismissal of the disgraced instructor is a strong indication of the drive to root out criminals within the SAPS. It is also a strong message that gender-based violence (GBV) will not be tolerated within the SAPS and in the country in general," said Cameron, adding that also there is a need for the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) to conclude the investigation to ensure effective prosecution of the matter. "While the officer has been arrested and is now out on bail, the completion of the investigation is critical in ensuring that effective prosecution happens," he said.

ORDER TO BE RESTORED 

Meanwhile, Cameron added that investigations into allegations of criminality and mismanagement at the same academy are being looked into and feedback will be provided in due course. "It is unacceptable that those in positions of authority can abuse financial resources and trainees and every effort must be made to hold those in power accountable. The speedy conclusion of the investigation will go a long way in efforts to reclaim the credibility of the SAPS, "he said.