7 years later, SAPS body cameras still NOT operational

It may have taken seven years, but SAPS body cameras are finally being procured nationwide, says acting police chief minister Firoz Cachalia. First proposed back in 2019, under Bheki Cele, as a high-tech crime-fighting tool, the acting police chief says the first phase of the long-awaited project finally started this month, April 2026.

SAPS BODY CAMERAS

Research suggests that body-worn cameras have reduced police use-of-force incidents by 10%. And civilian complaints against law enforcement have dropped by 15% where utilised. As such, it appears the potential benefits of SAPS body cameras would outweigh the cost by a factor of four to one. Likewise, a UK study says operational gains and reduced paperwork amounts to 22% where body-worn cameras are in operation.

At the same time, Cachalia has revealed how much the new SAPS body cameras will cost, estimated at R14 million. He also confirmed the cameras – along with in-vehicle dash cameras for SAPS vehicles – were only in the procurement phase and not operational as yet. “While drawing nearer, the acquiring of body-worn cameras has not yet been finalised. As such, the process remains in the contracting phase,” said Cachalia.

WHY THE LENGTHY DELAY?

However, Cachalia did at least reveal why the SAPS body cameras had taken so long to acquire. He explained that the procure process was handed over to the State Information Technology Agency (SITA). “The bid is still to be advertised by SITA. Once a service provider is appointed, the SAPS will develop a comprehensive national rollout plan, which will determine the full implementation timeline,” Cachalia said.

Back in November 2024, suspended Police Minister Senzo Mchunu announced the commencement of SAPS body cameras. He said they would be fully deployed by 2026 after ensuring, “The technology was the right fit for SAPS operations and addresses the specific needs of officers in the field.”

At the time, the estimated cost for each body-worn camera was R28 000. And the department wanted to roll out 100 per year. Since then, the topic fell quiet, until Cachalia confirmed the R14-million budget for the first phase of implementation, starting this month.

But what do you think? Will SAPS body cameras ever make an appearance? And do you think they can improve crime fighting in South Africa? Let us know your thoughts in the comments section below …