ABSTRACT
This chapter evaluates the two-and-a half decades of politics, policy, and policing following the country’s first democratic election in 1994. This includes efforts to transform the South African Police force (SAP) into a service-oriented police agency, and the key social, political, and economic developments that have shaped its evolution. We explore the present state of crime, violence, and poverty in the country and how they intersect to hinder the aspirations of many police officers. We pay particular attention to factors relevant to police professionalism and integrity, including the development and effect of various accountability structures, including the Independent Police Investigative Directorate.
