Alleged rape at police academy: Popcru calls for transparency and justice

The police and prisons civil rights union (Popcru) has voiced its outrage over the alleged sexual assault of a female trainee at the South African Police Service (Saps) training academy in Tshwane.

According to the union, the trainer at the academy was arrested and removed from his post. This followed the disturbing allegation of rape.

The union expressed deep concern in a statement on Thursday, describing this as a “serious betrayal of trust.”

“Popcru unequivocally condemns any form of Gender-Based Violence and Child Abuse (GBVC), especially when perpetrated by those entrusted with the training and development of future law enforcement officers.”

Calls for immediate action

Speaking at a Cabinet meeting, Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni condemned the incident.

The union has called on Saps to conduct a “full, transparent, and independent investigation” into the matter.

Popcru has urged the divisional commissioner of Saps training to ensure accountability and appropriate action.

“We also want to make it categorically clear that this criminal act, while deeply disturbing, should not paint all Saps trainers with the same brush,” it said.

Furthermore, Popcru emphasised that while this incident is deeply disturbing, it should not tarnish the reputation of all saps trainers.

Popcru urged the public not to let the actions of one individual overshadow the efforts of the entire training institution

“There are countless committed, disciplined trainers across the country who continue to serve with integrity,” Popcru clarified.

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Support and reform demands

The union has also called for immediate support for the affected trainee through the Saps Employee Health and Wellness Programme (EHW). This includes access to psychosocial counselling and trauma support.

Popcru further recommended enhanced screening and vetting processes for all personnel at the academy.

The union also urged stronger gender sensitivity and ethics training across Saps training facilities.

Finally, Popcru stressed the need for greater public transparency in the investigation’s outcome. This is to restore public and internal confidence in the Saps.

“Popcru remains committed to building a professional, ethical, and accountable policing environment, free from abuse, harassment, and intimidation,” it concluded.

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