News: SAPS National Commissioner defends Police officers who respond decisively during crossfire with criminals

Media Statement
South African Police Service (SAPS)

PRETORIA – The National Commissioner of the South African Police Service, General Fannie Masemola, has thrown his full weight in defence of police officers who respond with authority and power vested upon them in the fight against crime.

This follows numerous incidences in different provinces where heavily armed and dangerous criminals totally disregard the law, commit heinous crimes and thereafter, engage in deadly shootouts with police.

“For as long as criminals attack police officers, the police will respond decisively as empowered by relevant legislation that governs the work of the police.” Said General Masemola.

“Police have observed with concern, statements issued in defence of criminals and questionable silence when police officers are killed in the line of duty including community members, who are always at risk and at times killed as innocent bystanders” General Masemola added.

Section 205 of the South African Constitution directs the South African Police Service to prevent, investigate, and combat crime, maintain public order, protect citizens and their property, and uphold and enforce the law. 

Since 01 April 2024 to date 21 Police officers have been killed in the line of duty. This is an alarming figure that calls for community members and civil society to rally behind the police and fight against life threatening criminality.

It is the responsibility of the police to stamp the authority of the State and maintain law and order. Therefore any act of lawlessness and brazen attacks on police and community members at crime scenes will be correctly addressed with authority by capable members of the SAPS.

Police officers across the country continues to work efficiently and effectively in fighting crime, to date since the inception of the high density Operation Shanela over 1.2 million people have been arrested for various crimes ranging from murder, attempted murder, rape, robbery aggravating amongst others.

Community members are urged to report criminal activities to their nearest police station, Crime Stop 08600 10111, National Extortion Hotline 0800 911 011, or leave an anonymous tip-off on the MySAPS APP.

Ends

Enquiries:
Major General Nonkululeko Phokane
083 645 6252

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