THE IMPACT OF CAPACITY BUILDING INITIATIVES ON THE SAP'S ABILITY TO INVESTIGATE AND PROSECUTE CYBERCRIME
Sr No:
Page No:
51-59
Language:
English
Authors:
Dr. John Motsamai Modise*
Received:
2025-03-14
Accepted:
2025-03-30
Published Date:
2025-04-03
Abstract:
This research aims to address this gap by investigating the impact of capacity
building initiatives on SAP'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 SAP's
approach to cybercrime. This will inform the development of more effective capacity building
initiatives to enhance SAS 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 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 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) ,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.