South African Police frequently must intervene at large gatherings, both peaceful demonstrations for the expression of shared grievances and armed confrontations involving opposing groups. All too often these gatherings have turned violent. According to the National Peace Accord of 1991, the role of the police should be to prevent violence, to protect people from violence, to disarm the illegally armed, to investigate and arrest suspects and to facilitate judicial process. A number of factors have led to a deviation from this role. Among these are political biases among police officers, their lack of restraint in using force including deadly force and problems related to the structure and training of the police force. Organizers of peaceful demonstrations and marches share in responsibility for escalation of violence when they fail to adequately plan and establish a clear chain of command for dealing with conflicts. A list of suggestions for changes in police practices and organizer and participant responsibilities is provided.