The office of the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI) Judge, also known as the Hawks Ombud, has recorded its highest number of complaints against the Hawks in a single financial year since its establishment in 2013. The DPCI Judge briefed Parliament's Police Committee on its annual report and performance. The office received a total of 102 new complaints during the 2025/26 financial year.
The complaints were received from members of the public who alleged that their rights were unlawfully infringed by Hawks members during investigations. The office also received complaints from Hawks members themselves who alleged improper political or outside interference in their work. Director in the office of the DPCI Judge, Charmaine Marshall, confirmed that this is the highest number of complaints ever received by the office since its inception.
Gauteng recorded the highest share of new complaints, followed by KwaZulu-Natal. The office attributed the increase in complaints to an increase in awareness of the office's existence and its mandate. The DPCI Judge's office was established to investigate complaints from members of the public about the unlawful infringement of their rights by Hawks members.
The Hawks are a specialized crime-fighting unit in South Africa that focuses on priority crimes such as corruption, organized crime, and cybercrime. The unit has been involved in several high-profile cases in recent years, including the investigation into a multi-million rand drug lab bust in Gauteng.
The increase in complaints against the Hawks comes at a time when there are concerns about police brutality and corruption in South Africa. The Civilian Secretariat for Police Service (CSPS) recently raised alarm over a spike in civil claims against the police, with over 15,000 cases pending.
The DPCI Judge's office plays a critical role in ensuring that the Hawks operate within the law and respect the rights of citizens. The office's annual report and performance briefing to Parliament's Police Committee is an important step in promoting transparency and accountability within the police service.
The South African Police Service (SAPS) has been working to improve its image and build trust with the public. The SAPS has implemented several initiatives aimed at promoting professionalism and accountability within the police service. The record number of complaints against the Hawks highlights the need for continued efforts to address concerns about police conduct.
Key points
- A record 102 complaints were received by the DPCI Judge's office in 2025/26.
- Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal recorded the highest share of new complaints.
- The increase in complaints comes amid concerns about police brutality and corruption in South Africa.
