SAPS Clarifies Bheki Cele’s Use Of Chopper At ANC Manifesto Launch

By Keitumetse ModiseFeb. 25, 2024 11:33 am CAT

The South African Police Service (SAPS) has addressed the controversy surrounding Police Minister Bheki Cele’s use of a police helicopter at the African National Congress (ANC) election manifesto launch.

A video circulating on social media showed the minister arriving at the event in the chopper, leading to accusations of misuse of state resources.

The Democratic Alliance (DA) has called for Minister Cele to be held personally accountable and billed for the use of the helicopter. Andrew Whitfield, the DA shadow minister of police, described the incident as a “gross abuse of state resources” and demanded that Cele pay for every minute the helicopter was in the air.

The party has also called for an internal investigation within the SAPS to review the process that authorised the use of the helicopter.

Brigadier Athlenda Mathe, speaking on behalf of the SAPS, clarified that the helicopter was deployed to monitor the large crowds at the event.

According to Mathe, the SAPS, along with other law enforcement agencies, work together to ensure the safety and security of major events in the country. The SAPS Air Wing and the operational commander provide air support to advise and guide ground operations during such events.

Mathe emphasised that the use of the helicopter was not for the minister’s personal use but rather part of the SAPS’s responsibility to ensure the safety of all people living in South Africa. The minister was fulfilling his constitutional duty by advising and guiding operations during the event, as he is tasked with the safety and security of the country’s citizens.

The SAPS reiterated that measures such as air support are put in place to prevent stampedes and other life-threatening incidents at major events. The deployment of resources, including helicopters, is aimed at controlling and managing large crowds.