Abstract
This thesis investigates the role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in enhancing e-policing governance in South Africa., with a particular focus on the City of Johannesburg (CoJ). The study aims to assess how AI can improve the effectiveness of e-policing in preventing, detecting, and controlling social crimes, which have become increasingly prevalent in the CoJ. Despite the adoption of e-policing through digital innovation and Information and Communication Technology (ICT), social crimes continue to pose significant challenges to social stability and sustainable development in the region. Employing a qualitative research design, this study draws on an exploratory approach that includes phenomenological case studies, open- ended interviews, and document analysis. The findings reveal that socio-economic factors such as poverty, inequality, ang high unemployment rate are significant drivers of social crimes in CoJ. Additionally, criminal behavior and the availability of weapons exacerbate these challenges. The study highlights that while e-policing has a potential to enhance crime prevention and control, its effectiveness is hindered by issues such as digital devises, inadequate infrastructure, and potential biases.
This Thesis argues that integrating AI into e-policing can significantly improve governance and operational efficiency, thereby reducing the prevalence of social crimes. However, successful implementation necessitates socio-economic mechanisms that improve digital infrastructure, and ensuring the ethical deployment of AI technologies. The study concludes with recommendation for policymakers and municipal officials, emphasizing the need for targeted socio-economic interventions, stricter regulations of weapon possessions, and strategic investment in AI and ICT infrastructure to bolster e-policing efforts in Johannesburg. This research contributes to the broader discourse on intersection of AI, digital innovation, and crime prevention, offering insights that are crucial for developing more effective and equitable policing strategies in urban environment.