Gauteng Police Commissioner, Lieutenant-General Tommy Mthombeni, has warned his men and women in blue to refrain from associating themselves with criminals.

This comes as Mthombeni and his deputy, Major General Fred Kekana, honoured 27 officers for their bravery, loyalty, and long service to the police force during an event held at Paterson Park in Norwood on Wednesday.

The ceremony celebrated members who have dedicated 40-, 30-, 20-, and 10-year service in the force, bringing together those whose dedication to the service has stood them well.

Mthombeni, who is on leave, issued a stern warning, urging the members to never allow themselves to be part of crime but always serve to the best of their oath, which is to serve and protect their country and its citizens.

“To the men and women receiving these medals, you are reminded that you must never allow yourselves to be in the value chain of crime in light of the current situation in the country. As you know, crime affects everyone, and a stern warning is that you should not be part of the criminal value chain but be there for the community. If you do that, you will earn your well-deserved salute,” he stated.

Mthombeni said being a public servant comes with criticism and challenges, which members of the police should not take to heart, as this is part of being a servant.

“Despite the criticism, what is key is that the SAPS is primarily responsible for the fight against crime… It is a well-known fact that the police can be on every street corner; hence, collaborations are important.

“Therefore, we are here to honour you as the defenders of the nation, because we want you to know that the nation has not forgotten its defenders. This honour also celebrates the bravery and loyalty of men and women who risk their lives on behalf of the country and its citizens,” he added.

Reflecting on his 40-year career as a policeman, Brigadier Stokkies Coetzee, who is the SAPS’s IT director, said that having started his journey as a 17-year-old, he is grateful for the support of other colleagues who have ensured that he continues on his path as a dedicated member of the police, despite some losses and lows along the way.

“I am grateful to the people I have worked with. Some of the people I started the journey with are no longer here anymore, but those who are here have kept me strong every day,” he said.

siyabonga.sithole@inl.co.za

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