SAPS and FIC

SAPS and FIC signing a memorandum of understanding to fight against crime. Photo: SAPS

SAPS to fight crime with the Financial Intelligence Centre’s assistance

Memorandum of understanding signed to “address criminality in the Republic of South Africa.”

SAPS and FIC

SAPS and FIC signing a memorandum of understanding to fight against crime. Photo: SAPS

A press release by the Financial Intelligence Centre (FIC) and the South African Police Service (SAPS) revealed that the two had signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) noting their collaboration to fight crime.

The MoU was signed on 27 September 2019. Its aim is to allow the two groups to work together timeously in sharing information in order to combat crime.

Main roles of FIC and SAPS collaboration

SAPS and FIC sign a memorandum of understanding to fight against crime. Photo: Twitter/ @SAPoliceService

The key goals of the memorundum:

  • Identifying the proceeds of crime
  • Tackling Money laundering, terrorism, and financing of terrorist and related activities
  • Implementation of financial sanctions of resolutions adopted by the United Nations Security Council

The agreement between the FIC and SAPS also aims to provide a framework for their working relationship. The methodology, safeguarding, confidentiality, and utilisation of the information exchanged between the two groups are all outlined in the MoU.

FIC and SAPS hope to use their relationship to be able to investigate and deal with crime with speed and efficiency. Thus ensuring that those responsible are apprehended.

The collaboration’s core purpose

SAPS and FIC
SAPS and FIC signing a memorandum of understanding to fight against crime. Photo: SAPS

“A core deliverable of the FIC is financial intelligence reports, which are developed proactively or upon request from the SAPS. These reports contain detailed analysis and information that can assist the SAPS in its criminal investigations.”

Financial Intelligence Centre and the South African Police Service, Joint Press Statement

FIC Director, Advocate Xolisile Khanyile spoke at the MoU signing stating:

“The FIC and the SAPS have enjoyed many years of effective collaboration in combating financial crime and money laundering.”

Advocate Xolisile Khanyile, FIC Director

The National Commissioner of Police, General Khehla John Sitole, pledged his unwavering commitment of the SAPS. He said:

“A joint integrated multi-disciplinary approach is the best way to address criminality in the Republic of South Africa. The coming together of expertise and resources will help create a formidable force against extreme criminality enabling us to ensure that people are and feel safe as it is outlined in our Constitution.”

General Khehla John Sitole, National Commissioner of Police

Information exchange agreements signed by FIC

SAPS and FIC
SAPS and FIC signing a memorandum of understanding to fight against crime. Photo: SAPS

The Deputy National Head of the Directorate for Priority Crime Prevention (DPCI), Lieutenant General Yolisa Matakata was also present for the event. Matakata said effective prevention and handling of crimes “that affect the South African economy is a priority for the DPCI.”

The DPCI deputy national head added that the joint venture would improve their “analytical, investigative, and preventive techniques” in fighting against the highest levels of crime.

The MoU was the ninth information exchange shared by FIC with stakeholders. FIC has also had signed information exchange agreements with: the South African Revenue Service, the Special Investigating Unit, and the State Security Agency.

The Insurance Crime Bureau, the South African Reserve Bank, the Southern African Fraud Prevention Service, the Public Protector, and the Financial Sector Conduct Authority have all signed agreements.