A controversial operation in Lentegeur has placed Dereleen James under intense scrutiny after she broadcast a police raid that led to the rescue of six minors.
The ActionSA MP had earlier indicated she would visit the area following a tip-off, before arriving alongside South African Police Service officers at a suspected drug den on Wednesday evening.
During the operation, which she streamed live, authorities encountered several women and children at the property, with some adults allegedly admitting to using tik when questioned.
Although the intervention resulted in the children being removed from what were described as unsafe conditions, the decision to film and broadcast the scene sparked backlash, particularly after the minors’ faces were shown.
Responding to the criticism, James acknowledged the concerns, stating: ‘I want to acknowledge the honest concerns that we were not careful enough in protecting the identities of the children. As soon as this was flagged, my team took steps to better safeguard their identities,’ as quoted by the Cape Argus.
She added: ‘We will correct our approach to ensure that these processes are handled with the necessary care and responsibility.’
Defending the broader operation, she said: ‘We are confident that the operation was conducted in accordance with protocol, with the presence of SAPS and social workers. However, this experience has also highlighted the urgent need for closer collaboration with the Department going forward.’
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Jaco Londt confirmed that the children have since been placed in alternative care, while noting that the Department of Social Development was not involved in planning or present during the raid.
He explained: ‘DSD was not part of the planning, or present at the raid. Sections 151-52 of the Children’s Act allow emergency removals of children by a designated social worker (from DSD or a designated child protection organisation) or a police official without a court order if there is an immediate risk to their safety or wellbeing.’
Londt further said: ‘Designated social workers from DSD used the Safety and Risk Assessment Tool to assess the children at the police station.’
He also issued a warning: ‘We would like to remind everyone that at-risk children may not be identified, as this can further compound an already traumatic experience for those involved.’
Meanwhile, police confirmed the matter is now under review, with spokesperson Andrè Traut stating: ‘In light of concerns regarding certain aspects of the incident, a senior SAPS official has been appointed to investigate the circumstances surrounding the matter.’
He added: ‘SAPS remains committed to the protection of vulnerable members of society, and will continue to work closely with relevant stakeholders to ensure their safety.’
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Picture: Darren Stewart / Gallo Images
