The effectiveness of detectives in the investigation of housebreaking cases in the Secunda Cluster, Mpumalanga South Africa

Abstract

This study seeks to determine the effectiveness of detectives in the investigation of housebreaking cases in the Secunda Cluster. Key theoretical concepts such as criminal investigation, housebreaking, evidence and effectiveness, are defined and explained. The objectives of criminal investigation are discussed in detail. The elements of housebreaking are also explained in detail. The researcher`s findings were that the research questions were answered by all the participants, who had more than adequate knowledge on the concepts, and were sometimes in line with the literature. The researcher noted the problems identified by the participants and came up with some solutions. On the basis of the findings of this research, recommendations are made to have specialised training in the investigation of housebreaking cases. The clarification and application of the various investigation techniques to improve the effectiveness of the investigation of housebreaking cases were also recommended. Investigators should continually receive refresher in-service training on new techniques being used by criminals in committing residential housebreaking cases.