Africa-Press – Eswatini. Prime Minister Russell Mmiso Dlamini has clarified that the Royal Eswatini Police Service (REPS) is legally empowered and strategically positioned to continue transporting or escorting cash across the Kingdom.
The PM gave this clarification in the House of Assembly, responding to a question from Mahlangatja MP Mgucisi Dlamini. The MP had raised concerns about why police were involved in cash transportation instead of leaving the responsibility to private security companies, suggesting that this could overstretch police resources and affect their core law enforcement duties.
PM was clear: the police’s role in this area is both lawful and essential. Citing Section 189 of the Constitution and the Police Service Act of 2018, he explained that the police have a legal mandate to protect life and property. Historically, he noted, Eswatini faced a wave of armed robberies targeting cash-in-transit operations, leading to significant financial losses and endangering lives.
“The police had to intervene to prevent further loss of lives and property,” the PM stated, during a session chaired by Speaker of the House Jabulani Mabuza.
Addressing MPs’ Concerns
MPs from various constituencies sought further clarity. Mafutseni MP Sabelo Mtsetfwa questioned whether the National Commissioner of Police received payments from private businesses for cash transport services. Nhlambeni MP Manzi Zwane asked if the service was equally available to all individuals and organisations.
The Premier explained that the claim regarding payments was an allegation that required verification. He assured the House that the matter would be investigated and feedback provided.
Focusing on High-Risk Operations
Dlamini also outlined that the police’s cash transport services focus mainly on high-risk targets, such as banks and major institutions handling large sums.
“The police targeted organisations transporting huge amounts of money. They would not be in a position to serve people or entities moving meagre amounts,” he clarified.
Security First
The involvement of REPS in cash transport has occasionally stirred public debate. However, government maintains that the initiative is a security-driven measure to protect financial institutions and the public from violent crime. By stepping in, the police have significantly reduced risks associated with the movement of large cash sums, reinforcing national security and public confidence.
For More News And Analysis About Eswatini Follow Africa-Press
