Parliament, Friday, 1 May 2026 – The Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Police, Mr Ian Cameron, has expressed deep concern and dismay at allegations surrounding the suicide of a senior South African Police Service (SAPS) officer, reportedly linked to workplace bullying.
“On this Workers’ Day, we call on SAPS senior management to prioritise the creation of a healthy and supportive working environment. It is deeply troubling that there are reportedly 77 allegations against the Sunnyside Station Commander, yet no meaningful action appears to have been taken to address what seems to be a clear pattern of abusive behaviour,” said Mr Cameron.
Mr Cameron has called for urgent institution of an independent investigation to determine the veracity of the allegations against the Station Commander, with firm consequence management should these allegations be substantiated.
While acknowledging that SAPS operates within a command-and-control framework, where respect for rank and seniority is fundamental, Mr Cameron emphasised that such structures must never be used to justify bullying. Seniority and abusive conduct are mutually exclusive and cannot be allowed to coexist.
The Chairperson further noted that allegations of bullying appear to be widespread within SAPS, with numerous officers having approached members of the committee to report ill-treatment by senior officials. He stressed that such a culture is both unacceptable and incompatible with the principles of a democratic society.
Mr Cameron extended his heartfelt condolences to the family of the late Lieutenant Colonel, assuring them that the committee will continue working to address workplace culture within SAPS in honour of his memory.
ISSUED BY THE PARLIAMENTARY COMMUNICATION SERVICES ON BEHALF OF THE CHAIRPERSON OF THE PORTFOLIO COMMITTEE ON POLICE, MR IAN CAMERON.
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