Discover the Legacy of the South African Police Special Task Force

Rank & Reporting

Explore the SAPSTF's legacy and intense training journey. Discover the history that shaped this elite Unit into a pillar of public safety.

The Quiet Guardians of Security

Imagine a Unit so adept that its operations are studied by the best globally. Established on February 1st, 1976, the SAP STF has consistently demonstrated excellence in high-risk land, sea, and air operations. From hostage rescues to combat missions, their actions are a testament to their rigorous training and dedication.

Why the SAP STF Stands Out

Mission

‘The Special Task Force of the South African Police provides a specialized and impartial service to the community by handling High-Risk Operations that fall beyond the scope of classic policing in a professional and accountable manner.’

The mission statement – which fundamentally embraces the constitutional framework - is in line with the purpose of the South African Police and embodies the philosophy and policing policy of the Minister for Safety and Security.

Major Operations

Training

Uncover the powerful legacy of the SAPSTF through its major operations. Dive into the missions that have defined this elite Unit and explore the history of their commitment to protecting South Africa.

Explore the SAPSTF’s formal ranks and reporting structure to see how leadership and teamwork have shaped their history. Learn more about the ranks that uphold this elite Unit’s dedication to excellence.

Join the Legacy

“You have never lived, till you have almost died and for those who fight for it, life has a flavor, the protected will never know.” - S.A.P. Special Task Force

The South African Police Special Task Force is the Special Operations element of the South African Police.
They are considered to be amongst the best such Units in the world. They have a formidable reputation in Counter Terrorism, Counter Insurgency, and Hostage Rescue.
The Special Task Force; like their Military Special Forces counterparts, is internationally regarded as deadly exponents in the art of bush warfare. This first-of-its-kind book about The Special Task Force has taken a long time to be completed and written as accurately as possible; the contents come from years of research and straight from the Operators on the ground; some of the best the Task Force has ever seen.

This book goes deep into the heart of this Unit, it tells of the history, the rise, and some of the most successful and daringly hostage release dramas the Task Force has completed with their impeccable record and more... Hold onto your seat, this is a wild ride that opens up to the core!

"You have never lived, till you have almost died, and for those who fight for it, life has a flavor, the protected will never know!" - S.A.P. Special Task Force