SAPS implements contingencies after critical systems shut down
The South African Police Service (SAPS) has confirmed that certain critical operations have been shut down nationally on Thursday.
The service provider supplying crucial operating systems to the SAPS and the State Information Technology Agency (SITA), Forensic Data Analysts (FDA), halted its operations due to non-payment.
The law enforcement agency confirmed that it had put contingency plans in place but the FDA says the withdrawal will have "devastating effects" on the operations of the SAPS.
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According to the SAPS's head of operational services, Vishnu Naidoo, the system shutdown "is likely to affect the efficiency of certain operations".
He however assured that operations will not be brought to a complete halt.
"To ensure that operations can continue unhindered and that service delivery is not compromised, contingency plans have been put in place."
Although more information could not be provided because of "serious security implications", Naidoo says they are seeking legal advice.
In a statement by the service provided it said, among other things, that firearms and ammunition in possession of officers may not be accounted for, officers may be unable to check in and out of duty and that the National Prosecuting Authority may be unable to remove evidence to be used in court proceedings.
"What FDA has done in terms of their statement, they may be held to account for that," said Naidoo.