South African Police Service rolls out R518 million vehicle fleet

The South African Police Service (SAPS) has launched a R518 million investment in 1,087 new vehicles to strengthen policing and investigations. National Police Commissioner General Fannie Masemola handed over the fleet, which includes sedans and double-cab bakkies, at the SAPS Academy in Benoni.

Detective and Forensic Services are the primary beneficiaries, receiving 739 vehicles. This includes 200 units specifically earmarked for units investigating child abuse, sexual offences, and family violence. An additional 290 vehicles will support visible policing, operations, and Flying Squads, while 58 vehicles will serve as a national reserve.

The Eastern Cape will receive the largest provincial allocation with 163 vehicles, followed by Gauteng with 151. Other provinces receiving significant portions include Mpumalanga, KwaZulu-Natal, and the Western Cape. The rollout aims to improve emergency response times and ensure professional, timely assistance for crime victims ahead of the upcoming local government elections and festive season.