Police General Headquarters situated in then Montague Avenue, Salisbury was the hub and control of command within the British South Africa Police.

The Commissioner of Police was responsible to the Minister of Law and Order for the efficient policing of the nation.  He had two Deputy Commissioners:

• Deputy Commissioner (Crime and Security) was responsible for all matters handled by:

  • Criminal Investigation Department
  • Duty Uniform Branch under the control of a Chief Staff Officer (Police) who oversaw:

    • Duty Uniform Operations
    • Police Reserve

  • Special Branch (Internal) although Officer Commanding Special Branch also had the title the Director Internal (DIN) Branch 1 and reported to the Director General (DG) of the Central Intelligence Organisation (CIO).
  • Signals

• Deputy Commissioner (Administration) : The rank of Deputy Commissioner was first introduced in 1958, following the recommendations of the Mundy and subsequent commissions, which reviewed the structure and remuneration of the entire force. The Deputy Commissioner (Administration) was responsible to the Commissioner for administration of the following portfolios :

  • Administration
  • Finance
  • Personnel
  • Establishments
  • Press Liaison
  • Quartermaster’s Section

    • Armaments
    • Ordnance Stores
    • Pioneers (building and construction)
    • Printers
    • Saddlers
    • Tailors

  • Transport
  • Recruiting
  • Training
  • Welfare and Sport