The Democratic Alliance (DA) wants government to take an innovative approach to reform policing, pointing out that had the South African Police Services (Saps’s) resources been more localised, there would have been better coordination with the City of Cape Town's Safety and Security Services in the matter of the recent Nyanga shooting.

DA spokesperson on Police Ian Cameron said a leaked intelligence report on the Nyanga shooting, which highlighted a need to bolster the country’s crime intelligence services, also pointed to the need for urgent police localisation for more effective resourcing and coordination.

Cameron pointed out that while the Saps was reportedly tipped off days in advance of the Nyanga shooting, they were outgunned and under-resourced on the scene.

“This resulted in chaos, as commuters went about their daily business, including matriculants travelling to collect their matric results; a day meant to be filled with joy was plagued by violence,” he said.

He said the City was committed to making a success of the Cooperation Agreement signed between it, the Western Cape government and the Executive in supporting Saps in the fight against crime.

He highlighted that while important information is shared, Saps faces significant pressure in general and organised crime, especially within crime intelligence, and in investigations.

“The "one-size-fits-all" approach to policing is not working, and law enforcement activities must be made responsive to the needs of the localities they serve. Whether it be crime intelligence, detective services, or boots on the ground, capable local and provincial governments must be given a chance to police their own backyards,” explained Cameron.

He warned that the country would continue losing its fight against crime, so long as criminals out-resource policing services.

“Before more die, or are injured and traumatised, Saps management can do more to support officers on the ground and communities,” he added.