Geetha Singh being handcuffed and transported to the police station in the back of a marked SAPS van, while a crowd gathers around her.

GEETHA Singh's detention following the discovery of undocumented Malawian nationals on her property raises critical questions about police conduct and the enforcement of immigration laws in South Africa.

Criminologist Priya Prinolia Naidoo offers insights into the complexities of the situation, advocating for a balanced approach that respects individual rights while ensuring public safety.

She said the actions taken by police should be viewed within the broader context of the situation the officers faced on the ground.

She said a situational-based approach to leadership and policing suggested there was no single response appropriate for every incident - decisions were instead guided by the circumstances confronting the officers.