Roundtable Discussion: The Dismantling of the Scorpions: Hidden Challenges, Implications and Threats

Date: 2008-03-05 to Invalid date

Roundtable Discussion: The Dismantling of the Scorpions: Hidden Challenges, Implications and Threats
Pretoria, 5 March 2008

 

Closed Event: By Invitation Only

 

Hosted by the ISS Crime and Justice Programme and the Hanns Seidel Foundation

 

The Directorate of Special Operations (DSO), popularly known as the Scorpions, may be closed, dismantled or reintegrated into the South African Police Services (SAPS). The Scorpions was specifically set up to operate as an independent Directorate that investigates and prosecutes organised crime and high-level corruption in order to ensure a safe and secure environment which is conducive to both growth and development. The Institute for Security Studies (ISS) and the Centre for Justice and Crime Prevention (CJCP) invite you to join us for a lively discussion and debate on the implications, threats and challenges of the closure of the Scorpions in the fight against crime and corruption in South Africa.

 

Discussants: 

 

The discussion will be facilitated by Eric Pelser, Executive Director, CJCP.

1. Dr. Johan Burger, Senior Researcher, Crime and Justice Program, ISS: Implications of the incorporation of the Scorpions into SAPS in terms of functions and human resources bearing in mind the lessons from the ‘restructuring’ of specialised investigative units within SAPS.
2. Prof. Pierre de Vos: The legal considerations - What were the legal concerns and challenges that were initially raised when the DSO was formed? What are the legal implications of the proposed closure in terms of the relevant legislation? What are the parliamentary requirements for new legislation or legislative amendments?
3. Hennie Van Vuuren, Head, Corruption and Governance Programme, ISS: What lessons have we learnt in South Africa in terms of independent agencies and their fight against high-level corruption? What will it mean to be without an entity such as the Scorpions?

 

After the above presentations and discussion, participants will be encouraged to consider possible next steps on this issue for civil society, such as the issuing of a joint public statement or a follow-up public seminar.

 

Date:  Wednesday, 5 March 2008

 

Time: 10h00 (start) to 14h00 (end) (lunch will be provided)

 

Venue: CJP Situation Room, Block B, Brooklyn Court, Veale Street, Tshwane

 

For further information: Andrew Kanyegirire, Tel: 012 346 9500; Fax: 012 460 0997; Email: [email protected]