Parliament, Saturday, 27 June 2026 – The Portfolio Committee on Police has reiterated its grave concern over persistent delays at the South African Police Service's Forensic Science Laboratory, warning that these delays continue to undermine criminal investigations, weaken the criminal justice system, and deny victims timely justice.
As part of its oversight programme in Gauteng, the committee conducted unannounced visits to Olievenhoutbosch, Bramley and Diepsloot Police Stations to assess service delivery, operational readiness and the availability of resources.
Committee Chairperson, Mr Ian Cameron, said delays of up to three years for ballistic test results are unacceptable and have a direct impact on the ability of investigators to finalise cases, secure prosecutions and hold perpetrators accountable.
"It is patently unacceptable that police stations can wait for up to three years for ballistic test results. These delays negatively impact the ability to conclude investigations, prosecute offenders and ensure justice for victims of crime. They also prevent lawful firearm owners from disposing of their firearms, further contributing to an unsustainable backlog that requires urgent intervention," said Mr Cameron.
Bramley Police Station:
At Bramley Police Station, the committee expressed concern about the poor standard of service at the Community Service Centre, where members observed an unwelcoming attitude towards members of the public. The committee emphasised that police stations are often the first point of contact for people in distress and that professional, respectful and responsive service is fundamental to restoring public confidence in the South African Police Service.
The committee also noted concerns regarding the overall cleanliness of the station and the apparent reluctance of some officials to assist members of the public.
Despite these shortcomings, the committee commended the station's leadership for the excellent management and maintenance of its vehicle fleet. Members found that police vehicles were well maintained and that station management had established effective working relationships with repair garages to minimise downtime and ensure operational readiness.
The committee further noted with concern that the station has been without a functional telephone for a long period, severely limiting public access to police services. In addition, the station has operated without a functional scanner, forcing officers to rely on neighbouring police stations to digitise case dockets. The committee has called on provincial SAPS management to urgently ensure that stations are equipped with the basic tools of trade required for effective policing.
Diepsloot Police Station:
At Diepsloot Police Station, the committee found that while the station has an adequate complement of operational police officers, concerns remain regarding shortages at management level. The committee noted that effective leadership is essential to operational planning, staff morale and the efficient functioning of any police station.
The committee will engage both provincial and national SAPS leadership to better understand how management structures are allocated and to advocate for a more appropriate balance between operational personnel and supervisory capacity.
The committee was encouraged by the professionalism and commitment demonstrated by officers serving at Diepsloot despite the significant challenges they face daily.
"The committee appreciates the dedication and commitment shown by the officers at Diepsloot Police Station and recognises their continued commitment to serving their community under often difficult circumstances," Mr Cameron said.
The committee also commended the station's management for maintaining its vehicle fleet in good condition. Members were informed that vehicle inspections and maintenance are addressed daily during parade briefings, reflecting sound operational management and accountability.
Olievenhoutbosch Police Station:
The committee expressed serious concern over the abhorrent working conditions at the Olievenhoutbosch Police Station, which continues to operate with little or no adequate support despite serving a community with a large number of residents. The absence of holding cells, a vehicle fleet operating at only 35% of the required strength, inadequate office space, and the lack of dedicated facilities for detectives to interview and interrogate suspects are not only unacceptable but also place committed police officers at unnecessary risk.
"Despite the President previously visiting the station, the continued lack of support is abhorrent and unacceptable. These conditions undermine the ability of dedicated officers to effectively serve the community. Despite these challenges, the officers have demonstrated remarkable commitment and professionalism. The SAPS leadership must urgently prioritise the provision of the necessary resources to this station and others facing similar circumstances," Mr Cameron emphasised.
The Chairperson further commended the Batho Pele spirit displayed by the officers at Olievenhoutbosch Police Station, who continue to go beyond the call of duty to provide essential policing services to an impoverished and growing community despite the severe resource constraints.
The committee will continue engaging SAPS leadership to address the operational challenges identified during these oversight visits, including the urgent need to resolve the forensic laboratory backlog, improve frontline service delivery, ensure the availability of essential policing equipment, and strengthen management capacity where required.
The committee remains committed to ensuring that police stations are adequately resourced and equipped to fulfil their constitutional mandate of protecting the public and combating crime effectively.
ISSUED BY THE PARLIAMENTARY COMMUNICATION SERVICES ON BEHALF OF THE CHAIRPERSON OF THE PORTFOLIO COMMITTEE ON POLICE, MR IAN CAMERON.
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