Criminal Law

IPID — Independent Police Investigative Directorate

IPID investigates serious police misconduct including deaths in custody, torture, rape, and corruption. You can report a police officer to IPID when normal channels fail.

Legal Definition

The Independent Police Investigative Directorate Act 1 of 2011 established IPID to investigate criminal offences allegedly committed by members of SAPS and the Metro Police. IPID's recommendations for prosecution are referred to the NPA; disciplinary recommendations go to SAPS.

📖 Constitutional / Statutory Basis: Section 206(6), Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, 1996; IPID Act 1 of 2011

Practical Example

You are tortured in police custody. You report this to IPID. IPID investigates, and if there is sufficient evidence, recommends prosecution of the officers to the NPA.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does IPID investigate?

Deaths (in police custody or as a result of police action), torture, rape, corruption, discharge of official firearms, and any criminal offence by a police officer.

Is IPID independent from the police?

Yes. IPID is constitutionally mandated to be independent from SAPS. It reports to Parliament, not SAPS management.

How do I complain to IPID?

Call IPID's toll-free number 0800 540 079, visit any IPID office, or submit a complaint online at ipid.gov.za.

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