Covid-19: ‘Heavy-handedness’ of lockdown security forces in the spotlight

The police portfolio committee called a meeting to discuss the role of security services during the lockdown period.

Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Police, Tina Joemat-Pettersson, called the meeting to receive a report from the SAPS and the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID), as well as to consider various issues of concern surrounding the management of lockdown.

Also read: How to report a case against officers to IPID

The prime issue was the management and heavy-handedness of security forces during the lockdown.

“In welcoming the announcement of the lockdown, the committee emphasised the supremacy of the law and that the declaration of the lockdown did not mean the suspension of the Constitution.

Also read: IPID – The leading authority in investigations against SAPS members

“Therefore, the law ought to be respected at all times, more especially by officers of the law,” Joemat-Pettersson said.

She added that the continued reports of alleged abuse of power and heavy-handedness by law enforcement officers were a concern for the committee.

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IPID and SAPS were asked to report to the committee on these allegations and provide a detailed analysis of incidents.

The intention was to ensure that there was consequence management for police officers who are involved in misconduct, especially in abusing the rights of citizens during the lockdown.

The committee emphasised that a few bad apples are tarnishing the police’s reputation.

She gave her full backing of the call by the President that enforcement of the law must not in any way violate the rights of the people, either intentionally or unintentionally.

“It is concerning that despite the compassionate plea by the President, there are those elements who have decided to undermine the rights of South Africans,” Joemat-Pettersson said.

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She added that the committee condemned the burning and vandalism of property which has seen an increase over the last week especially at schools and businesses.

“The most treacherous action is burning a school that is meant to guarantee a better future for the next generation.

“Communities must work with police to isolate and expose these criminals,” Joemat-Pettersson said.

Additionally the committee is also concerned by reports of an upsurge in gender-based violence and femicide, and crimes against children since the lockdown.

She emphasised the importance of collaboration between communities and the SAPS.

“The only way to conquer this virus is through adherence to all regulations as set out by government and adherence to protocols set out by the World Health Organisation,” Joemat-Pettersson said.

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