SANDF soldiers expose ‘disconnect’ with SAPS as Cape gang murders continue

A concerning gap has emerged between the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) and the South African Police Service (SAPS) while targeting gang violence on the Cape Flats, according to reports. SANDF soldiers have expressed dissatisfaction with poor coordination, insufficient intelligence-sharing, and inadequate support during Operation Prosper.

This issue has been brought to the attention of Parliament's Portfolio Committee on Police and Joint Standing Committee on Defence (JSCD), who conducted an oversight visit to evaluate the operation in gang-affected areas such as Philippi East, Delft, Gugulethu, Harare, and Muizenberg. The operation has been marred by a high number of murders, with over 170 people killed in the Western Cape over a two-week period.

Voice recordings from SANDF members, obtained by anti-crime group Fight Against Crime SA (FACSA), reveal frustration over the focus on smaller targets, such as tuck shops and shebeens, rather than major criminal figures. The SANDF members also criticized military vehicles for hampering their ability to move quickly due to their poor design and limited space.

SAPS spokesperson Brigadier Novela Potelwa stated that the police could not comment on the recordings as they had not been authenticated and SAPS had not been given a chance to listen to the concerns. However, she assured that communication channels exist between the SANDF and SAPS to address joint operation issues. SANDF chairperson Ian Cameron stated that while soldiers are eager to work, they feel restricted by operational limitations and the scope of their mandate.

Some SANDF soldiers believe the police are not always present when urgent matters arise or avoid certain criminal strongholds. The committees also heard that some SAPS members allegedly failed to provide sufficient intelligence to help soldiers identify crime hotspots and criminal strongholds. FACSA warned that Operation Prosper might be more of a visibility exercise than a meaningful intervention against violent crime.

The oversight visit also exposed concerns about soldiers' living and working conditions, including inadequate storage for clothing and gear, purchased basic supplies, and delayed allowances. The committees acknowledged that the SANDF faces funding constraints and questioned whether Operation Prosper is reaching the individuals responsible for gang violence.

JSCD chairperson Phiroane Phala emphasized that the main issue is coordination and ensuring intelligence is properly shared and followed up. Community Policing Forum representatives echoed the concerns about a clear and sustainable plan for the Cape Flats once Operation Prosper concludes, particularly in Mitchells Plain.