The South African Police Service would like to assure our communities that the Automated Fingerprint Identification System (AFIS) has not been “disabled” as some media reports suggest.
During a short period of time, between 2 and 7 December 2018, difficulties were experienced, brought on by a power failure, and this resulted in the system only being partially operative. Maintenance took place and those affected functions were restored.
The AFIS is currently being operated on a month to month contractual basis but, after a high-level meeting chaired by the National Commissioner, General Khehla John Sitole, this morning, a commitment has been made that plans will be concretised to prevent further interruptions; to ensure 100% operational capacity going forward and to provide sound maintenance and support services.
It is unfortunate that an internal letter, within the Forensic Services environment, was leaked to the media causing confusion. This matter is being dealt with decisively within the SAPS and there is absolutely no cause for concern.
“I have instructed that the Contract Management Strategy being implemented throughout the organisation be strictly adhered to and that the Divisions: Supply Chain Management, Technology Management Services and Forensic Services work closely to monitor and manage all contracts involving our critical systems,” said General Sitole.
SAPS assure that the Automated Fingerprint Identification System (AFIS) has not been “disabled”
