In a move that has ignited a heated debate over privacy and freedom of speech, the SAPS Crime Intelligence division is forming a covert unit to monitor social media activities. This initiative, led by National Police Commissioner General Fannie Masemola, aims to identify and expose criminal elements using online platforms to orchestrate unlawful activities.
The plan includes appointing former political staff members of ex-police minister Bheki Cele to these coveted intelligence roles. This has raised eyebrows and sparked controversy, with many questioning the implications for freedom of speech and privacy rights.
Controversy Behind SAPS Monitoring Social Media Activities
SAPS Crime Intelligence’s new strategy responds to a significant surge in crime rates, particularly murders, across South Africa. Critics argue that this approach might infringe on individual freedoms. According to insiders who spoke to Sunday World, the positions within this new unit will be advertised next Sunday despite resistance from senior police officials concerned about the integrity of intelligence practices.
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A former senior police officer expressed opposition to Masemola’s approach, emphasizing the necessity of having qualified professionals for social media surveillance. “Monitoring social media requires specific skills and qualifications. Moreover, this decision contravenes the directive from the Department of Public Service and Administration (DPSA), which mandates that all ministry staff must vacate their posts at the end of the office term,” the officer explained.
The Reason Behind the Move
This covert unit’s formation follows the investigations into the July 2021 unrest in Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal, which resulted in approximately 350 deaths. The South African Human Rights Commission noted that social media played a pivotal role in inciting the violence. However, critics argue that the new unit merely duplicates existing efforts. “There is already a section within crime intelligence dedicated to social media monitoring,” a crime intelligence source stated. “This seems like an effort by Cele to secure positions for his allies.”
Political Appointments and Concerns
Concerns have also been raised about Nonkululeko Phokane’s appointment as head of communication and liaison services without public advertisement of the role. Phokane’s close ties with Cele have fueled suspicions of political motivations behind these appointments.
Another contentious figure is Major General Phalani Lushaba, who oversees the Secret Service account. Despite allegations of misconduct, including involvement with a s_ex worker and theft of classified information, Lushaba remains in his position. This has intensified claims of Cele’s undue influence.
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Official Responses and Future Implications
Brigadier Athlenda Mathe, a police spokesperson, confirmed that some former ministerial staff had been appointed in a permanent capacity and that their redeployment within the public service was being considered.
As this situation develops, questions persist about the new unit’s true intentions and its impact on freedom of speech and privacy. Is this a genuine effort to combat crime or a strategic move to extend political control within the SAPS? The upcoming weeks are likely to provide more clarity on this contentious issue.