A new law will allow phones to be tapped and emails to be intercepted in the fight against crime, the department of justice says.

Justice spokesperson Lesley Mashokwe said on Sunday that, while the Interception of Communications and Provision of Communication-related Information Act allowed for the lawful interception of communications, this could be done only after authorisation by a judge especially designated to perform that function.

While justice minister Brigitte Mabandla is yet to appoint a judge, the act is already in effect.

"However, for the act to be a success it requires the co-operation of the private sector, especially telecommunication service providers, as well as individual owners of cellphones," she said.
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• This article was originally published on page 3 of The Star on October 31, 2005