Public Works and Infrastructure Minister Dean Macpherson visited the Algoa Park police barracks in Gqeberha on Tuesday, 6 October 2026, and condemned the facility as a “horror show” unfit for human habitation. Despite an estimated R57-million spent on two maintenance phases, the barracks remain in a dire state with non-functional lifts for nearly seven years and fire hydrants unserviced for at least five years.
During his inspection, Macpherson expressed shock at the conditions, saying, “What I saw here at Algoa Park is deeply disturbing. This is a residential accommodation for police officers, but what is before us is more a horror show than a place that is fit for human habitation.” He described the situation bluntly: “This is a disaster.”
The maintenance spending reportedly includes R34-million from 2011 to 2012 and R23-million from 2017 to 2019. Yet major infrastructure problems persist, including lifts that have been out of order for seven years and fire safety features neglected for at least five years. Additionally, a flat gutted by fire in 2020 remains unrepaired.
Macpherson ordered a full audit within 14 days to identify who is currently living in the barracks and directed the department to develop a rectification plan addressing all health and safety concerns. He emphasised the need for accountability on maintenance expenditures, stating, “I cannot see where that money was spent. I would like to know where that money was spent and on what.”
The department clarified that Public Works is responsible for the buildings’ physical condition while the South African Police Service (SAPS) manages the accommodation budget. The situation was escalated following an oversight visit on 3 June 2026 by Retief Odendaal, DA MPL and Nelson Mandela Bay mayoral candidate, who publicly raised concerns about the barracks’ deteriorating state.
Major-General Nolitha Tito, speaking to the state of the police members’ conduct at the barracks, said, “The conduct of our members is obviously in question, and many behave like they are not police officers.” This statement underscores broader issues of discipline tied to the poor living conditions at Algoa Park.
The Eastern Cape Democratic Alliance welcomed Macpherson’s intervention and said the matter had been escalated to ensure government commitment to fixing the barracks. However, no official timeline for repairs beyond the 14-day audit period was available at the time of reporting.
The situation at Algoa Park highlights long-standing infrastructure challenges within police accommodation in Gqeberha. Despite sizeable investment over the past decade, failure to maintain critical safety features and basic functionality has compromised living conditions and potentially affected police morale and conduct. This issue resonates across the country as questions grow over government accountability in public infrastructure spending and maintenance.
CapeFlats.co.za will follow the progress of the ordered audit and rectification plan, expected to report developments after the 14-day deadline set by Minister Macpherson.