Specialised units in the SAPS : a case study of the waterwing in Gauteng

Abstract

This dissertation analyses the effectiveness of specialised units within the South African Police Services as exemplified by the Gauteng Waterwing Unit. Factors influencing the effectiveness are analysed, and the advisability of making these units permanent units within the South African Police Services structure is evaluated. Different policing styles are discussed with regard to their effectiveness in different situations and their applicability in the water policing context. Possible corrective actions to reduce the influence of factors hindering service delivery are proposed. The analyses were accomplished by examination of the literature supplemented by practical field observations and interviews.