The management of performance in crime prevention at Esikhawini police station : a critical evaluation

Abstract

The researcher has investigated the performance of Esikhawini police station in crime prevention. The aim of the study was to investigate the root causes of the station's underperformance in the prevention and combating of crime. The objectives of the study were intended to determine the application of sound management principles in the management of the police station. They further aimed at etennining the level of application and compliance with departmental policies. The researcher had obtained 101 voluntary participants who completed the questionnaire. The study found that the commanders at the police station did not possess the expected level of competence to ensure that the police station operated optimally, and provide the quality of service so desperately required by the communities at Esikhawini. The study revealed a serious shortcoming in the comprehension and interpretation of performance and performance management. The researcher concluded that the inadequate managerial skills and failure to understand the key management tools like performance and the management of performance contributed to the situation of underperformance . The researcher recommended that specific in-house designed developmental programmes be undertaken at the station to improve the competency levels of managers and members at the station.