Over R25m spent on salaries for suspended cops in 2024-2025: Cachalia

More than R25 million in salaries has been paid to police officers while under suspension between 2024 and 2025.

This includes officers facing serious charges ranging from corruption and robbery to rape and hijacking.

Acting Police Minister Firoz Cachalia revealed this in a written reply to a question from Rise Mzansi National Assembly whip Makashule Gana.

He said it's unacceptable that such gross misconduct is found within the South African Police Service (SAPS).

Makashule wants a detailed briefing from the police top brass and the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID).

"It can, therefore, be predicted that the 2025/26 figure will outstrip the 2024/25 figure, given that the former financial year has yet to close. What is even more alarming than the millions paid is the nature of the charges these officers face… crimes that strike at the very heart of public trust. And yet, they continue to receive full salaries while suspended."