SAPS celebrates the graduation of 1,900 constables, with a focus on female representation
Acting Police Minister, Prof Firoz Cachalia, National Police Commissioner, General Fannie Masemola, together with Deputy Ministers Dr Polly Boshielo and Mr Cassel Mathale, welcomed more than 1,900 newly trained constables to the ranks of the South African Police Service (SAPS) at their passing out parade on Friday morning.
The contingent of trainee constables have completed the Introductory Police Development Learning Programme (IPDLP) and now hold qualifications in criminology, policing, law, forensic investigation, and various other fields of study. They will be deployed to bolster crime-fighting efforts, especially at the 30 stations with the highest crime rates.
The ceremony took place simultaneously across the country where 222 at Bishop Lavis Academy in the Western Cape, 215 at Mthatha Academy in the Eastern Cape, 287 at Mankwe Academy in the North West, 201 at Moloto Academy in Mpumalanga, 145 at Ulundi Academy in KwaZulu-Natal, and 849 at Bisho in the Eastern Cape received their badges.
A highlight was also the mention that the biggest number of the new police constables countrywide are females, with a total of 1,017, while males total 902.
General Masemola extended his congratulations and reminded the constables about the importance of their job.
“Today, you are no longer recruits, you are police officers of the Republic of South Africa. The work ahead of you is as demanding as it is noble. Crime in our country is ruthless. Criminals have no regard for the law, for life, or for the well-being of communities.
“You are now entrusted to be the shield between law-abiding citizens and those who wish them harm.”
“Officers on parade, as you leave the corridors of this academy to go to the coalface of crime fighting, protect yourself to protect others, your safety is paramount. A fallen officer cannot serve the community. Remain vigilant, follow your training, and operate as a team.”
Masemola reminded the graduates of the heartbreak and dangers of their job as well.
“This past weekend as the leadership of the SAPS, including the Minister, we visited a total of three families of our fallen members (Sintwa, Masenye, Mtshweni) whose lives were cut short by ruthless criminals.
“I urge you to serve with integrity, the SAPS uniform must never be used to abuse power. Wear it with pride, and let your actions bring honour to our service. In carrying out your daily duties stand firm against criminals, do not flinch in the face of intimidation. Criminals must know that the SAPS is uncompromising in its fight for justice.”
This was Acting Police Minister Professor Cachalia’s very first passing out parade since his appointment.
Professor Cachalia relayed a message of remaining steadfast in their commitment to the safety of the people and the country.
“As members of the South African Police Service, you are now bearers of a critical constitutional mandate. The Constitution of our democratic republic, the highest law of our land, entrusts the SAPS with the task of preventing, combating, and investigating crime, ensuring public order, protecting and securing the inhabitants of South Africa, and upholding and enforcing the law.
“This is not a small task. It is, in fact, one of the most vital responsibilities in any democratic society. Without safety and security, all other rights to life, to dignity, to equality are placed at risk. You are now guardians of those rights.”
He commended the officers’ decision to walk with the path of law.
“You have taken an oath and pledged your allegiance to the values enshrined in the SAPS Code of Conduct. Let that not be just a formality. Let it be a way of life. Uphold it with honour and integrity.
“Do right not when it is easy, but especially when it is hard. Be in service of our people not in word only, but in action. Respect every individual’s rights, and never abuse the authority that now rests with you.
“You are the generation of police officers who will police South Africa into the next decade. You will do so, not only with the authority of the law, but with the dignity of knowing that your service matters. You are building a safer, more just society. This is not just a job, it is a calling. It is a commitment to the people of this Republic.
“Serve with courage. Lead with honour. Protect with conviction. And always remember: the badge you wear represents something far greater than yourself, it represents hope.”
tracy-lynn.ruiters@inl.co.za