The Eastern Cape Acting Provincial Commissioner, Major General Thandiswa Kupiso, has welcomed newly appointed South African Police Service (SAPS) constables across multiple districts, reinforcing the Service’s commitment to discipline, integrity, and community safety. The provincial tour took place across multiple districts covering, Griffiths Mxenge Hall in Zwelitsha, Mthatha Stadium, Wilkenson Hall in Komani, and the SAPS Academy in Sunnyside
What Happened
The tour began at Griffiths Mxenge Hall in Zwelitsha, where constables from Amathole and Buffalo City districts were addressed. It continued in Mthatha for OR Tambo and Alfred Nzo Districts, in Komani for Chris Hani and Joe Gqabi Districts, and concluded at the SAPS Academy in Sunnyside on, welcoming NMB and Sarah Baartman Districts.
District Commissioners gave warm addresses, encouraging the constables to learn from their commanders’ experience. Major General N.N. Xakavu, Acting Deputy Provincial Commissioner for Policing, urged recruits to absorb guidance and reminded them that SAPS supports members rather than firing them, with discharge often being voluntary.
Major General N.H.T. Tito, Deputy Provincial Commissioner for Support Services, emphasised ethics and commitment, describing the SAPS as a cornerstone for a long career from recruitment to retirement. Lieutenant General Z.M. Dladla, Deputy Provincial Commissioner for Crime Detection, stated the importance of attitude, anti-corruption, and exploring careers within SAPS, including detective roles.
The events were filled with spirited amagwijo, as constables expressed gratitude, recalling discipline and unity fostered in the academies, and pledged their commitment to justice and community safety.
Official Response
In her keynote, Major General Kupiso expressed pride in the new generation joining the SAPS, calling them a source of fresh energy and hope for policing. She stressed serving with dignity, professionalism, and ethics, reminding recruits that communities respect officers who are disciplined and ethical.
“Resist temptation at all costs. Do not allow anyone to entice you into wrongdoing. Corruption will not only destroy your career, but it will stain the very image of the SAPS. Be smart in your appearance as men and women in blue, but more importantly, in your conduct,” Kupiso said.
She also emphasised the Batho Pele principle, urging officers to put people first.“The Service is for the people, by the people, and to the people. You are stepping into a calling that requires resilience and heart. You will witness the best and worst of humanity. But never forget—you are the thin blue line between order and chaos, safety and danger” she explained.
Community Impact
The tour demonstrates SAPS Eastern Cape’s commitment to strengthening community policing and combating crime. District Commissioners, constables, and program directors expressed gratitude for Major General Kupiso’s leadership and personal involvement in welcoming the new recruits. The initiative is expected to enhance public confidence in SAPS through disciplined, ethical, and community-focused policing.
FAQ
When did the SAPS provincial tour take place?
From 9 to 12 September 2025 across multiple districts in the Eastern Cape.
Who addressed the new constables?
Major General Thandiswa Kupiso and other senior SAPS officials including Deputy Provincial Commissioners for Policing, Support Services, and Crime Detection.
What is the focus for new recruits?
Ethics, discipline, professionalism, community service, and anti-corruption measures.
