Pretoria – The South African Police Service (SAPS), in conjunction with the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), has signed a memorandum of understanding aimed at improving the country’s safety and security.
According to the agreement, the two will join forces on technology programmes for improved national safety and security.
Speaking at the signing ceremony held in Pretoria on Tuesday, National Police Commissioner General Riah Phiyega said the partnership was long overdue.
Phiyega said as the police, it was imperative to continually enhance their ability to respond quickly, smartly and effectively to challenges.
“The signing of this agreement is a critical milestone in the journey of transforming the SAPS.
“We will cooperate and obtain expertise in all areas of policing, including technology, research, procurement and skills development,” she said.
According to the agreement, the SAPS will consult the CSIR to offer technological advice with regard to improving police operations.
This includes skills development, among other things.
Phiyega explained that the agreement will create the much-needed institutional framework for the SAPS to have direct access to a scientific, engineering and technology base to support both the operational and strategic components of policing, ensuring the national safety and security of citizens.
“We understand that a synergised, collective effort is needed in order to achieve a safer South Africa.
“We have no doubt that collaborations of this nature will play a pivotal role in addressing the areas that we may seem to fall short on,” she said.
Phiyega said she hoped that the partnership will live up to what is expected of it and add value to the fight against crime.
“With the CSIR and the community at large, we have to continue to identify threats within the communities and across our borders that create a climate of fear and social disorder, so that all the inhabitants of this beautiful country can live in safety,” she said.
Signing on behalf of the CSIR, Chief Executive Officer Sibusiso Sibisi said through the agreement he anticipates a very close working relationship with the SAPS.
He echoed Phiyega’s sentiments that the agreement was long overdue. – SAnews.gov.za
