Press Statement dated 12 September 2018
The 2017/18-crime statistics released by the Minister of Police, Bheki Cele, in parliament on 11 September 2018 have shown an increase in crimes detected by police action and support calls for higher levels of visible policing.
The crimes that came under scrutiny include illegal possession of firearms and ammunition, which increased by 8.8%, drug-related crimes by 10.5%, driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs up by 14.8%, and sexual offences detected as a result of police action increased up by 8.7%. The Public Servants Association (PSA) that represents thousands of SA Police Service employees, in acknowledging the work of police officers as custodians of community safety, expressed the view that visible policing is a necessity that demands the deployment of more police officers.
“Crime levels are increasing, which have serious consequences for the country. Vigilance by police officers will be one of the driving forces in combating this societal scourge. This requires more trained and equipped police officers to start achieving the results that have been promised to South Africans for years. Vacant posts in the SA Police Service need to be filled as matter of urgency,” said PSA General Manager, Ivan Fredericks.
The PSA welcomed the announcement by Minister Cele that there will be an increase of intake at police training colleges. “With the murder rate increasing by almost 7% in the 2017/18-financial year, the higher intake will in the long run assist, especially in informal settlements, which are reported to lack police visibility. Simultaneously with the increased intake, the quality of training of recruits should also receive attention. The country needs competent police officers to ensure maximum investigation of cases. Police also need the assistance of other stakeholders such as the justice system to ensure that criminals are convicted,” said Mr Fredericks
The PSA expressed the hope that the Minister and National Police Commissioner will take urgent steps to curb violent crime in the country. “Such steps should also be aimed at addressing the issue of police officers who pay the highest price for their selfless services,” said Mr Fredericks.
Issued by Ivan Fredericks, General Manager, Public Servants Association (PSA)