This initiative follows investigations and convictions of individuals involved in the 2021 unrest in Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal provinces, where 350 people were killed.

Police say the incident highlighted the need for closer scrutiny of online activities.

National Police Spokesperson, Athlenda Mathe, says “Already, there is a capability that is there to monitor the media space and to pick up on incidents. The number of incidents that we’re picking up on social, through social media, is assisting us.

“So, we have various capabilities within the SAPS that are already dealing with social media, the social media space and ensuring that we monitor it, but obviously if such a team is put in place, it’s to enhance and improve our capabilities.”

--SABC--