South African taxpayers have paid R171 million over the past five years for the protection of high-profile individuals, including legislative speakers, judges, and people deemed strategically important to the country.
This comes in addition to the R1.31 billion spent on safeguarding President Cyril Ramaphosa and his Cabinet members during the same period.
The figures were revealed by Police Minister Senzo Mchunu in response to parliamentary questions from Rise Mzansi MP Makashule Gana. Gana had asked for details on who receives state-funded VIP protection beyond government officials and diplomats, as well as the costs involved.
Mchunu outlined three categories of people who received protection services:
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Legislative Officials – This includes speakers and deputy speakers of Parliament and provincial legislatures, as well as leaders of the National Council of Provinces. A total of 22 individuals were protected over five years, costing R71.2 million. This amount excludes salaries for police officers, travel, and vehicles, which were covered by their respective departments.
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Judges – Protection was provided to 14 judges, including the Chief Justice and Deputy Chief Justice, at a cost of R45.3 million. Their security details, travel, and vehicles were also funded by their departments.
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Ad-Hoc VIPs – These are individuals considered strategically important and facing verified security threats. Protection is temporary and ends when the threat is gone. Over five years, 82 people received this service, costing R53.1 million.
Mchunu explained that premiers, their executive councils, and judges receive protection under the South African Police Service’s (SAPS) mandate. Ad-hoc protection is granted based on risk assessments.
Earlier this year, Mchunu disclosed that R1.31 billion was spent on protecting the executive branch from 2020 to 2025. The budget covers all members collectively rather than individual costs.
The revelations highlight the significant public funds allocated to VIP security in South Africa.
