Training of intelligence operatives.

Abstract

The term "Intelligence" has for too long been perceived as activities of closed organisations, surrounded by myths, misunderstanding, and taboos. Intelligence is now regarded as a key element not only in business but virtually in all fields of public and private affairs. Intelligence is seen as a concern for every organization and nearly every individual. This study has been conducted in response to a void identified by the researcher in respect of the training of intelligence operatives attached to the Crime Intelligence Gathering Unit of the South African Police Service, Kwa - Zulu Natal. The study was conducted to provide a comprehensive insight into the effectiveness of the current Crime Intelligence training and skills development. The researcher hoped to help further the professional training and development of a cadre of intelligence personnel within the Crime Intelligence component of Kwa-Zulu Natal who will display the necessary confidence and authority in meeting and addressing the challenges of organised Crime. In addition the researcher aimed to provide the Division of Crime Intelligence with a model that can be implemented for future training and development initiatives. The literature review was conducted focusing on factors impacting on the training and development of intelligence operatives within the Crime Intelligence Division. In addition an extensive study on strategies implemented within the corporate sectors in respect of training and development was carried out. A brief comparison of training carried out within the FBI and CIA was researched. However the information available was restricted due the issue of sensitivity. The presentation of the recommendations was guided from the findings of the literature review. The problem statement guided the research methodology process deemed necessary for the investigation of the training and development of Intelligence Operatives. The research study was based on the explorative research method to clearly understand the dilemma and challenges facing the management of Crime Intelligence. A quantitative analysis was conducted on 120 subjects whose core function is Crime Intelligence Gathering and who serve as Intelligence operatives within the Province of Kwa-Zulu Natal. A well structured questionnaire was found to be the most suitable method to collect the data that was essential to the study. In addition a focus group interview was carried out to obtain responses that will provide insight into the training and development of Intelligence operatives. The questions posed were similar to the ones posed on the questionnaire and the individuals involved in the focus group were excluded from the sample. Based on the findings of the study, recommendations were made to assist the Management of Crime Intelligence with structured processes that can be utilised in the development of individuals whose core function is Crime intelligence Gathering. The recommendations were made on the basis of promoting a culture of proactive learning that ensures that individuals grow to meet the challenges that they are presently facing. Intelligence is a specialised discipline, thus the training initiatives need to provide specialist knowledge to ensure the effective and efficient means of intelligence gathering that is pertinent in addressing organised crime. A brief recommendation for further research studies was made to investigate the training and development of Intelligence operatives within Crime Intelligence operating within other Provinces. In addition recommendations were made in respect of the sample size and sampling technique that can be utilised for future studies.