The South African Police Service (SAPS) held its Annual National Commemoration Day to honour and pay tribute to police officers and reservists who lost their lives in the line of duty from 01 April 2022 to 31 March 2023.
Annually on the first Sunday of September, the SAPS dedicates this day in its calendar, to remember its men and women in blue who paid the ultimate price to serve and protect all people living in South Africa.
“Yesterday’s proceedings were officiated by the President of the Republic of South Africa (RSA), His Excellenc” Mr Cyril Ramaphosa.
This year, thirty-four police officers names were added and engraved to the National Memorial Wall at the Union Buildings, to signify the gratitude of the nation for their bravery and loyalty to serve and protect all communities within South African borders.
These were members who knew the risks and dangers associated to this vocation, yet they remained committed to the cause of serving and protecting all people within South African borders.
As part of the procession, the President together with the Minister of Police, General Bheki Cele, National Commissioner of the South African Police Service, General Fannie Masemola and the next of kin of the fallen heroes and heroines, laid wreaths in honour of the deceased members.
President Ramaphosa says attacks on police officers must come to an end and that there must be justice for the families of our fallen heroes and heroines.
“The hard work of the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigations, known as the Hawks, has resulted in the arrest of 76 suspected police murderers over the past year. These cases are currently before different courts. A total of 488 suspects have been arrested for deaths of police officers since 2018. Through diligent investigative work, nine convicted police killers were handed down nine life sentences, a sum total of 158 years imprisonment, “ said President Ramaphosa.
Through the SAPS Employee Health and Wellness Component (EHW) the organisation continues to render psychological and spiritual support to the families, friends and colleagues of the deceased members.
The proceedings of the day culminated with the President engaging with the bereaved families where he shared words of comfort and support to each family member. His Excellency also addressed the cohort of police trainees that are currently undergoing training at the SAPS Tshwane Academy.
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