Press Statement dated 25 January 2019
South African Police Service (SAPS) employees perform their duties, while facing overwhelming challenges, including risking their lives, understaffing and being under-resourced. This while the country attempts to tackle the scourge of crime, including violent crimes.
In commemorating National Police Day on 27 January 2019, the Public Servants Association (PSA) calls on the Minister of Police, Bheki Cele, to honour the commitments he made to increase the number of police officers, while improving training of new recruits. “It is unacceptable that close on 100 police officers are killed in the line of duty every year. As Minister Cele alluded last year, the country is not meeting the United Nations norm of policing of one police officer to 220 citizens. South African citizens (excluding foreign nationals) numbering 57 million are policed by only 200 000 officers – a shortage of nearly 60 000 officers. How can police officers be expected to effectively deal with crime under such circumstances?” questioned PSA General Manager, Ivan Fredericks.
“The PSA pays tribute to SA Police Service employees for the vital role they are playing in maintaining peace and security. The Union of Choice remains steadfast in its mission to promote and protect the rights and interests of these dedicated public servants,” said Mr Fredericks.
Issued by Ivan Fredericks, General Manager, Public Servants Association (PSA)