Dear Editor
The Democratic Alliance (DA) is deeply alarmed by ongoing reports of corruption, financial mismanagement, and abuse at the SAPS Training College in Philippi – issues that have remained unresolved despite investigations dating back to 2019.
Most recently, it has come to light that recruits at the college are being compelled to purchase standard-issue uniform bags costing over R1,000 – an unacceptable expense that should already be covered by SAPS as part of basic provisioning. This is yet another red flag pointing to possible procurement irregularities and exploitation of trainees.
These revelations come against the backdrop of damning findings made during parliamentary oversight visits in 2024. The Portfolio Committee on Police witnessed first-hand the shocking state of disrepair at the college, allegations of sexual harassment, drug use, intimidation, and the absence of basic infrastructure. Despite an annual operating budget of over R110 million, the college had reportedly not undergone a financial audit in over five years. Whistle-blowers have been intimidated, and senior managers linked to alleged corruption remain in office with no visible disciplinary action taken.
To date, the Hawks and SAPS management have failed to account for over R100 million believed to have been misappropriated. The slow pace of investigation, lack of arrests, and the continued silencing of whistle-blowers suggest a deliberate cover-up.
The DA calls for:
- An independent and transparent inquiry into the financial and operational mismanagement at the SAPS College in Philippi;
- Immediate disciplinary action against implicated officials who remain in leadership positions;
- The reinstatement and protection of whistle-blowers who have faced retaliation for exposing corruption;
- A full audit of all procurement practices at the college, including the forced purchase of uniform items by trainees.
After nearly six years of ongoing investigation, the time for delays and excuses is over. SAPS cannot train the next generation of police officers in an environment that is itself lawless. The people of South Africa deserve a professional, well-trained, and corruption-free police service – and it begins with accountability at the very institutions tasked with shaping its future.
Regards
Lisa Schickerling MP
DA Deputy Spokesperson on Police