How does SAPS decide whether my event is low, medium or high risk?

The National Commissioner of the South African Police Service categorises each event in your schedule as low-risk, medium-risk or high-risk (s6(9)), and must take these factors into account (s6(7)):

• popularity or reputation of the teams or people taking part
• expected attendance, and attendance records at similar events
• location, and the suitability of the stadium, venue or route (structure, spectator facilities, precinct layout)
• the physical, staffing and electronic safety and security infrastructure, and how ready it is
• safety, security and medical incident records at similar events
• crime statistics and trends, and any threat analysis
• certified safe capacity of the stadium, venue or route and its precincts
• age profile of attendees
• liquor consumption and sales, and their impact at similar events
• day of the week, start time, duration, and arrival and departure of participants and spectators
• the importance of the result, the intensity of the rivalry and tension between supporters, and league positions or rankings
• international, national, local, social, economic, political or security factors
• availability of police, emergency and essential services
• expected weather or other natural conditions
• pre-event entertainment and marketing promotions
• any other factor the National Commissioner considers appropriate

The National Commissioner may ask you for more information and may consult anyone (s6(4), s6(8)). The categorisation is sent in writing to you and to the municipality where the event will be held (s6(10)).