Problems experienced by detectives in the processing and utilisation of crime information at the Rustenbrug Detective Unit North West Province South Africa

Abstract

To achieve reduction in crime rates and an increase in detection rates, there should be an alternative to the traditional ‘reactive’ model of investigating crime. The use of information to investigate crime is not unique to modern times. Investigating crime includes not only the collection of crime information, but the processing and the utilisation of crime information, aspects usually neglected by investigators. This article provides an insight into the problems experienced by detectives in the processing and utilsation of crime information in the investigation of crime. These problems give rise to decrease in detection rates. Processing and utilisation of crime information has proven to be the most important components in the investigation of crime. The type of processes used, is largely determined by the assignment received by the Crime Information Analysis Centre (CIAC), which fulfills the crime information needs of the South African Police Service (SAPS). From time to time crime analysts are expected to perform some of the tasks associated with each of the crime analysis processes. The detailed, analytical processing of crime information can provide timely and relevant information for detectives to accurately determine the nature of criminal activities, predict crime occurrences and identify perpetrators responsible for crimes. The success of crime information processing is centered on its timely utilisation to investigate crime effectively. The purpose of the study was to determine the strengths and weaknesses in the processing and utilisation of crime information at the Rustenburg Detective Unit in the North West Province of South Africa.