THE IMPACT OF CAPACITY BUILDING INITIATIVES ON THE SAPS'S ABILITY TO INVESTIGATE AND PROSECUTE CYBERCRIME
Sr No:
Page No:
78-85
Language:
English
Authors:
Dr. John Motsamai Modise*
Received:
2025-02-10
Accepted:
2025-02-25
Published Date:
2025-02-28
Abstract:
This research aims to address this gap by investigating the impact of capacity
building initiatives on SAPS's ability to investigate and prosecute cybercrime. By evaluating the
effectiveness of training programs, analyzing the role of specialized units, and understanding
recruitment strategies, this research will identify key strengths and weaknesses in SAPS's
approach to cybercrime. This will inform the development of more effective capacity building
initiatives to enhance SAPS's preparedness and response to cyber threats. This research
examined the effectiveness of training programs, the development of specialized cybercrime
units, and the recruitment of cybercrime investigators.
The aims of the article were to assess the impact of capacity building initiatives on the South
African Police Service's (SAPS) ability to investigate and prosecute cybercrime. The objectives
were to evaluate the effectiveness of training programs in equipping SAPS officers with the
necessary knowledge and skills to investigate cybercrime. Analyze the impact of specialized
cybercrime units on the SAPS's ability to handle complex cybercrime cases. Investigate the role
of recruitment strategies in attracting and retaining qualified cybercrime investigators within
SAPS. Identify key challenges and opportunities associated with capacity building initiatives for
cybercrime investigation and prosecution. The research questions were to what extent do current
SAPS cybercrime training programs equip officers with the necessary knowledge and skills to
investigate cybercrime effectively? How do different training delivery methods (traditional vs.
online modules, simulations) impact investigators' knowledge retention and competency in
digital forensics and cybercrime legislation? Are there opportunities to improve collaboration
between training institutions and law enforcement agencies to ensure training programs reflect
real-world cybercrime challenges? Cybercrime is a growing threat in South Africa, causing
significant financial losses and disrupting critical infrastructure. The South African Police
Service (SAPS) faces challenges in investigating and prosecuting these crimes due to a lack of
specialized skills and resources. Capacity building initiatives, such as training programs,
dedicated cybercrime units, and targeted recruitment, are essential to improve SAPS's ability to
combat cybercrime. However, the effectiveness of these initiatives in equipping officers with the
necessary knowledge, expertise, and manpower remains underexplored.
Keywords: Cybercrime, South African Police Service (SAPS)
Keywords:
Cybercrime, South African Police Service (SAPS) ,Capacity Building, Law Enforcement, Digital Forensics, Cybercrime Investigations, Cybercrime Legislation, Specialized Cybercrime Units, Training Programs (for Law Enforcement), Recruitment Strategies (for Law Enforcement), Public-Private Partnerships (in Law Enforcement), Knowledge-Based Policing,Security Capacity Framework.