On 9 September 2025, the Ministry of Police hosted a formal handover ceremony in Pretoria, Gauteng, representing a significant milestone for the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI), commonly known as the Hawks. The event was led by Deputy Minister of Police, Mr Cassel Mathale, who underscored the vital importance of adequately resourcing law enforcement agencies to effectively combat the most serious criminal threats, including organised crime, corruption, and commercial offences.
The DPCI remains a cornerstone of South Africa’s crime-fighting efforts. Ensuring it has sufficient resources—particularly vehicles—is crucial to operational success. Delays in investigations are often not due to a lack of determination but stem from logistical constraints, notably limited mobility. When law enforcement officers cannot swiftly reach crime scenes, engage with stakeholders, or follow critical leads, the administration of justice is hampered. Such limitations undermine public confidence in policing and weaken trust in the broader criminal justice system.
Deputy Minister Mathale announced the handover of 78 vehicles to the DPCI, of which 14 are armour-plated. This initiative is far from symbolic; it is a clear demonstration of the government’s ongoing commitment to enhancing the operational capacity of this elite crime-fighting unit. The new fleet is intended to serve as a force multiplier—enabling timely investigations, expanding the Directorate’s reach, and improving response times across the country.
He urged members of the DPCI to embody the qualities associated with their namesake—the hawk—by demonstrating clarity, focus, courage, and decisiveness. Officers are expected to observe criminal activity from a vigilant vantage point, gather robust evidence, and act decisively to dismantle organised crime networks and present credible, court-ready cases.
Expressing confidence in the leadership of General Nkosi and his predecessor, General Lebeya, the Deputy Minister acknowledged the exemplary work of the DPCI personnel. However, he emphasised that resources alone do not guarantee success; professionalism, vigilance, and integrity are essential. He also issued a strong warning against the misuse of the newly acquired vehicles, reminding officers that public trust depends on responsible conduct. The vehicles are intended to serve communities effectively, not for personal benefit. Any abuse or mismanagement risks reversing progress and betraying the communities the Directorate is committed to protecting.
Concluding his address, Deputy Minister Mathale called on the public to join forces with law enforcement in the fight against crime. He reaffirmed that safety remains a collective responsibility, achievable only through collaboration between government, police, and communities.
Supporting the event, DPCI Hawks spokesperson Brigadier Thandi Mbambo confirmed that a total of 84 vehicles, including 20 armour-plated units, have been handed over to bolster the Directorate’s national operational capacity. This investment in mobility is expected to significantly enhance the DPCI’s ability to respond swiftly, dismantle criminal syndicates, and advance crime prevention throughout South Africa.
This vehicle handover signifies a renewed commitment to a professional, well-resourced, and effective crime-fighting institution—one that is prepared to uphold justice and security for all South Africans.
No comments:
Post a Comment