Cachalia unveils R127bn SAPS budget, pledges police reset

Firoz Cachalia

Cape Town – The South African Police Service has been allocated R127.072 billion for the 2026/27 financial year, with the budget expected to rise to R135.8 billion by 2028/29, as Acting Police Minister Firoz Cachalia unveiled a sweeping “police reset agenda” aimed at rebuilding public trust and strengthening policing in South Africa.

Presenting the SAPS Budget Vote in Parliament, Cachalia said the plan was focused on building “a modern, professional and trusted police service that places the safety of people first.”

He cautioned that the reforms would not deliver overnight results, saying: “We won’t promise miracles or short-term fixes. What matters is that the direction we are taking is clear and the goals are firm.”

Cachalia acknowledged public frustration over high crime levels, corruption and weak policing standards, while also admitting that SAPS remained affected by systemic corruption, particularly in procurement systems.

He revealed that investigations linked to the Madlanga Commission and internal anti-corruption initiatives were continuing, warning that “arrests will continue” as implicated officials are identified.

A major portion of the budget will be directed towards strengthening Crime Intelligence and detective services to improve intelligence-led policing, criminal investigations and prosecution outcomes.

“To retain expertise, the Detective Critical Skills Allowance of R1000, introduced in October 2025, will continue,” Cachalia said.

The acting minister also announced a renewed focus on the country’s 50 highest-crime police precincts, where detailed assessments will examine leadership, staffing, operational readiness and infrastructure needs.

Government has further allocated additional funding to combat illegal firearms and modernise policing systems, including the rollout of a digital Firearms Control Management System and reforms to SAPS procurement and supply chain processes aimed at improving transparency and accountability.

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