JCPS: SA navy among the best
2008-08-05 20:07
Pretoria - The South African Navy is able to provide effective maritime defence services and is capable of measuring itself against the best in the world, a government justice cluster said in Cape Town on Tuesday.
This was according to a statement following a visit to Simon's Town by the Directors General of the Justice Crime Prevention and Security (JCPS) Cluster on Tuesday.
It said the process of rejuvenation of the SA National Defence Force had ensured that the SA Navy was capable of measuring itself against the best in the world.
In addition, the Department of Defence had also successfully integrated its strategic defence package with acquisitions such as SA Navy frigate, SAS Isandlwana, and two submarines, the SAS Chalotte Maxeke and SAS Queen Modjadjii.
Fight against crime
The cluster also visited the police's Sea Borderline Control (SBC) facilities where they were briefed on their role and responsibilities in the fight against crime.
"Recent successes of this unit include arrests for the illegal possession of firearms, drug-related crimes and crimes related to living marine resources," the cluster said.
The primary function of SBC is to combat the illegal cross-border movement of persons and goods within the South African maritime environment.
The presentation also included details on the latest boats acquired, which enabled police to deal effectively with crimes committed on the South African sea border line.
"The close cooperation between the SBC and the SA Navy creates an integrated capacity to enhance security on the South African coastline," said the cluster.
The Western Cape stop was the second following the cluster's visit to KwaZulu-Natal in April this year.
- SAPA