In a pivotal media briefing held today in Pretoria, newly-appointed Minister of Police, Senzo Mchunu, outlined the priorities of the Ministry of Police for the seventh administration. The briefing highlighted key issues such as the safety of SAPS members, firearm control, and the instillation of professionalism within the force.
Minister Mchunu emphasized that the imperative to professionalize SAPS members, enhance technological capabilities, and enforce stringent firearm control measures remains at the forefront of the Ministry’s agenda. “Central to our strategy is the urgent need to professionalize the SAPS and instill positive ethical values, patriotism, and the understanding that the primary duty of a police officer is to always serve and protect the public,” Mchunu stated.
One of the main concerns addressed was the eradication of corruption within SAPS. Mchunu vowed to remove corrupt elements to bolster the integrity of the force.
“Uprooting corruption and removing corrupt police officers from SAPS will remain a top priority. Misconduct by SAPS members will not be tolerated, and action will be taken,” he asserted.
The safety of police officers was also highlighted as a pressing issue. Mchunu condemned the attacks and killings of police officers, stressing that such acts are tantamount to declaring war on the state and its people. “The safety of our police officers is a priority. We condemn the attacks and killing of police officers, whether they are on or off duty. Anyone who attacks a police officer is declaring war on the state and the people,” he declared.
Crime statistics presented during the briefing were alarming, with 78 police officers killed in South Africa in the last fiscal year, which began in April 2023. Between July and September 2023 alone, 35 officers were killed either on or off duty.
Mchunu also addressed the rising crime levels in the country, noting that contact crimes such as murder, rape, hijacking, and kidnapping for ransom payments are the most serious issues facing South Africa.
“The levels and types of crime differ from one province to the other. The leading crimes in the country currently are contact crimes such as murders and rape, as well as hijackings and kidnappings for ransom payments. The killing of women and children also continues to be a cause for serious concern and warrants intensive action from law enforcement,” he said.
The Minister concluded by reiterating the Ministry’s commitment to tackling these issues head-on and ensuring that the SAPS is equipped and motivated to serve and protect the South African public effectively.
