Wrongful Arrests in South Africa: What Counts as “Reasonable Suspicion”?
In South Africa, recent statistics have shown that the South African Police Services (SAPS) have recorded 4,000 wrongful arrests in the 2023/24 financial year. Over a four-year period, between 2021 and 2024, SAPS has paid out approximately R1.6 billion in wrongful arrest and detention cases. The Criminal Procedures Act 51 of 1977 (CPA) provides that […]
Unlawful Arrests and Your Rights
In South Africa, the process of making arrests is governed by the Criminal Procedure Act 51 of 1977 as amended (CPA), which outlines the legal framework for law enforcement officials when apprehending individuals suspected of committing crimes. This legislation ensures that arrests are carried out in a manner that upholds the rights of the accused, […]