Parliament's Security Cluster warns against prolonged military deployment in crime fight

The chairpersons of Parliament’s security cluster committees have cautioned against the prolonged deployment of the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) to combat domestic crime.

While acknowledging the immediate impact of the military, the chairs urged authorities to prioritise addressing the socio-economic ills that plague communities as part of a sustainable, long-term strategy to ensure public safety.

The chairpersons issued these statements during a media briefing focused on Parliament’s oversight of crime, defence, and national security. It has been over a month since President Cyril Ramaphosa authorised the deployment of soldiers across various provinces to bolster law enforcement efforts.

At the time of the announcement, the President emphasised that the military’s role is intended to be a "force multiplier" rather than a permanent fixture in local policing.

Ian Cameron, Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Police, noted that while the deployment provides necessary support in the short to medium term, it cannot replace traditional policing.

"I must, however, say and say it very clearly that a military deployment is not a long-term solution," Cameron stated.

Echoing this sentiment, Dakota Legoete, Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Defence, stressed the importance of a transition back to civil authority once areas are secured.

"We want the army to come in to stabilise, but after that stabilising, SAPS [South African Police Service] must be in," said Legoete.

The committee chairs expressed confidence that the current collaboration between the army and the police can yield significant results, provided there is a unified focus on dismantling organised crime networks.

Specifically, they highlighted the need to remove "kingpins" involved in illegal mining and high-level syndicates to ensure lasting stability.

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