Parliament, Friday, 26 June 2026 – The Portfolio Committee on Police has expressed serious concern over the lack of critical policing resources and inadequate collaboration between the South African Police Service (SAPS), the City of Tshwane and local stakeholders, which continue to undermine efforts to improve safety and security in Erasmia and the Mooiplaas informal settlement.
During its oversight visit to Erasmia Police Station and the Mooiplaas informal settlement, the committee engaged with SAPS management, the Community Police Forum, the private security industry, the Gauteng Department of Community Safety and the City of Tshwane. The visit followed a motion adopted by the National Assembly highlighting the alarming levels of violent crime in the settlement.
The committee found that while the station is officially allocated an adequate number of vehicles, many are either unserviceable, have accumulated excessive mileage, or are unsuitable for the challenging terrain in the policing precinct. Coupled with poor road infrastructure, inadequate lighting and the dense layout of the informal settlement, these shortcomings significantly hinder effective policing.
The committee also raised concern over allegations of police misconduct, including claims that some officers own rental properties within the informal settlement and that others accept bribes, compromising their constitutional duty to serve and protect. Community members were encouraged to report any credible evidence of wrongdoing to the Independent Police Investigating Directorate to enable thorough investigations and appropriate action.
Another major concern is the poor rate of arrests and successful prosecutions despite numerous reported crimes. The committee noted with concern that approximately 80% of murder-related entries from Mooiplaas reportedly have no identified suspects, highlighting the urgent need to strengthen investigative capacity. The committee emphasised that intelligence-led policing must become a priority to effectively combat violent crime in the area.
The committee further called on the City of Tshwane to accelerate efforts to improve basic infrastructure, including the provision of street lighting and accessible roads, as these are essential for effective policing and community safety.
An unannounced oversight visit to Olievenhoutbosch Police Station similarly revealed significant operational challenges. Officers continue to work under difficult conditions characterised by inadequate office space, a shortage of vehicles, insufficient holding cells and deteriorating infrastructure. Despite these challenges, the committee commended members for their commitment and professionalism.
The Portfolio Committee on Police will engage with SAPS national leadership to advocate for the urgent allocation of additional resources to both Erasmia and Olievenhoutbosch police stations. Addressing these operational deficiencies, strengthening partnerships with local stakeholders and improving intelligence capabilities remain critical to restoring public confidence and enhancing the fight against crime in these communities.
ISSUED BY THE PARLIAMENTARY COMMUNICATION SERVICES ON BEHALF OF THE CHAIRPERSON OF THE PORTFOLIO COMMITTEE ON POLICE, MR IAN CAMERON.
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