R1.6bn for cops' mistakes

Mchunu unable to disclose if any claims paid out to foreign nationals.

- Molefe Seeletsa

A total of R1.66 billion was paid out by the South African Police Service (Saps) in claims to people for wrongful arrest and detention, as well as assault in police custody over four years.

This was recently revealed by Police Minister Senzo Mchunu in his response to a parliamentary question.

In a detailed breakdown, Mchunu revealed that there were 3 303 claims filed against the state for wrongful arrest and detention in the 2020-21 financial year, with Saps paying out R239.2 million.

The following year saw an increase to 3 830 claims during the 2021-22 period, with payouts rising to R346.2 million.

In 2022-23, the number of claims jumped to 4 550, with the amount paid reaching R541.7 million.

By 2023-24, claims surged to 5 533, resulting in payouts of R491.3 million.

Over the four years, the total amount paid out for wrongful arrest and detention claims was an enormous R1.62 billion.

For assault claims, the payouts were smaller but still significant.