KZN police commanders urged to improve performance

Acting KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Commissioner Major General Phumelele Makoba has challenged police commanders across the province to take greater accountability for crime levels and service delivery in their policing areas.

Addressing district commissioners, provincial heads, station commanders, visible policing commanders, detective commanders, support heads, unit commanders and commissioned officers during an accountability session at the Durban Christian Centre Jesus Dome in Mayville, Makoba said police leaders must reflect on their commitment to serving communities.

“If you are a station commander and your station has been declining for the past three years, the question you should be asking yourself is whether you love your job or not, and whether you deserve to be the servant of the people in that area,” she said.

Makoba reminded commanders that they are entrusted with the safety and security of KwaZulu-Natal residents and must take charge of their policing areas.

“When you become a Saps officer, your appointment is ratified by the president of the republic. Such is the authority that you have in commanding the troops on the ground,” she said.

Makoba said poor management often results in communities losing confidence in the police.

“When community members are angry because of a lack of services from the police, the first person they blame is the station commander. They know that you are in charge of that station, and they expect you to be truly in charge,” she said.

She also urged officers considering management positions to carefully assess their willingness to serve before applying.

“We will advertise station commander posts and other junior to middle management posts soon. Before you put a pen on that application form, ask yourself if you are willing to serve the people of this province,” she said.

HAVE YOUR SAY

Like the South Coast Herald’s Facebook page, follow us on Twitter and Instagram