The South African Police Service has partnered with scientists and technology experts in a hi-tech mission to tackle some of the most complex cyber crimes.
The agreement - signed by national police commissioner Riah Phiyega and Council for Scientific and Industrial Research head Sibusiso Sibisi in Pretoria yesterday - would also usher in innovative methods to aid cyber and forensic detectives and forensic laboratory technicians.
Police forensic laboratory services boss Lt-General Khomotso Phahlane said CSIR would develop forensic skills to get cases to court promptly.
Phahlane said the national forensic laboratories in four provinces processed 400000 forensic evidence cases each year, but that now even more work would be completed.
"The agreement will also help in acquiring the best technology to advance the cause of forensic services. This is also the platform to exchange expertise and lessons," he said.
The SAPS has 53 technology systems and another insider,Lt-General Solly Ngubane, said these systems were vulnerable to cyber-criminals and hackers.
Ngubane said the partnership would also equip detectives with skills to trace cyber-criminals who send out e-mails and SMSes telling recipients of fortunes they have won.
"Currently, it is impossible to trace these messages," he said.
Phiyega lauded the partnership as a milestone in transforming the SAPS in a fast-paced, globalised world.
Just R20 for the first month. Support independent journalism by subscribing to our digital news package. 
