New generation of police constables sworn in
The graduates, having undergone rigorous training since April, will be deployed at different police stations to serve and protect their communities.
A new era of policing began at a graduation ceremony at Tshwane SAPS Academy on December 12.
Young and aspiring police officers graduated from the Basic Police Development Learning Programme.
The newly trained police officers will be deployed at various police stations and units including visible policing and detective services across the country to capacitate the grassroots level of policing in time for the peak of the busy festive season.
The total number of members on parade at Tshwane and three other academies was 2 699.
The breakdown per academy is as follows:
– Tshwane Academy – 2 060
– Bishop Lavis – 399
– Graaff-Reinet – 112
– Ulundi -128
Senzo Mchunu hailed the occasion as “inspiring and emotional,” acknowledging the graduates’ commitment to serving their country with pride, honour and dignity.
Mchunu said the graduates, who have undergone rigorous training since April, are now equipped to uphold the rights of all citizens and safeguard democracy.
He added that with the power and responsibility entrusted to them, comes the expectation of integrity and ethical conduct.
“While gathered in Pretoria, Deputy Minister Cassel Mathale is presiding over the Western Cape parade; Deputy Minister Polly Boshielo is presiding over the Ulundi, KwaZulu-Natal parade; and retiring Lieutenant-General Kwena is presiding over the Eastern Cape parade,” he stated.
“To the proud graduates on parade today: Congratulations on this remarkable achievement.”
Image: SAPS X page
Mchunu said police are working towards Vision 2030, aiming to professionalise the police service, ensuring quality service to communities while upholding human rights within the confines of the law.
He explained that as the nation’s guardians, these newly trained constables will be the first line of defence against crime, fostering trust, ensuring safety, and maintaining law and order in communities.
“The ministry is committed to reviewing and improving conditions of service for officers, providing the necessary tools, resources and working environments.”
Mchunu stated that they have answered the noble call to serve and protect the people of this country, and for that, they deserve their deepest respect and gratitude.
He added that their commitment to policing is critical to the nation.
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“The Constitution of the Republic of South Africa tasks the police with a solemn responsibility to uphold and protect the rights of all citizens,” he stated.
Mchunu said among these rights is the right to life, one of the most sacred and non-negotiable rights enshrined in the Constitution.
“This is not just a job; it is a mission to safeguard the very foundation of our democracy.”
He highlighted that these are the issues that the members of the parade are fully aware of.
Mchunu said police need to increase their visibility and that means more boots on the ground.
“Your deployment to police stations across the country comes at a crucial time, as we enter the busy festive season,” said Mchunu.
“It is at the grassroots level where you will make the most impact, fostering trust, ensuring safety, and maintaining law and order in our communities.”
He told the graduates that they will be the first line of defence against crime, and their presence will bring hope and reassurance to the citizens they serve.
Mchunu added that he understands that the work ahead will not be easy.
“Policing is a demanding profession and your well-being is important to us.”
He promised that they would continue working to ensure that “you have the tools, resources, and conducive working environments needed to perform your duties effectively and efficiently”.
Mchunu stated that the constables have been equipped with substantial insight into legislation that governs policing and being a police officer.
“So, at all times, be mindful that whatever action you take in executing your duties is done within the confines of the law.”
He said, however, with the power and responsibility entrusted to them comes the expectation of integrity and ethical conduct.
“Let me be clear: There is no room for corruption within the South African Police Service. Any officer who chooses to betray this noble profession by engaging in corrupt activities will face the full might of the law.”
He urged the women and men in blue to uphold the law with unwavering pride, honour and dignity.
Mchunu warned that the uniform must at all times be worn with pride and dignity and they must abide by the SAPS Code of Conduct.
He reminded them to always remember they must serve the people of South Africa.
“Do what is right, even when no one is watching.
Let your actions be guided by justice, fairness and the values enshrined in our Constitution.”
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By doing so, he said they will not only earn the respect of their communities but also strengthen the integrity of this esteemed institution.
Mchunu thanked the families, friends, and loved ones of these graduates for their support and sacrifice.
“Your encouragement has been instrumental in shaping the constables we celebrate today; your presence here today reflects your unwavering commitment and love for them.”
To the graduates, Mchunu said they must take this next step in their journey, knowing that they carry the hopes and trust of a nation.
“Serve with courage, with compassion and an unwavering commitment to justice.
You are the guardians of our democracy and the protectors of our people.”
#sapsHQ [TSHWANE PASSING OUT PARADE] WATCH Drill display by the newly trained constables at #SAPS TShwane Academy. #PassingOutParades #MoreBootsOnTheGround ME pic.twitter.com/UNeQXs5AdH
— SA Police Service 🇿🇦 (@SAPoliceService) December 12, 2024
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