It is intolerable that law enforcement officers, who are supposed to be upright, upholding of the Constitution, enforcing the law and defending the weak, find themselves behind bars. But in its endeavours of ensuring that South African Police Service (SAPS) becomes an effective force in fighting crime, the leadership will continue to "clean out" corrupt elements that may still be within.
This is a stern forewarning by the Minister of Police, Nathi Mthethwa, today when he replied to a parliamentary question relating to how many SAPS members are currently in prison, awaiting trial or convicted.
"There are currently 37 former SAPS members in prison. Convicted prisoners sentenced to direct imprisonment are automatically dismissed in terms of Section 36 of the Police Act, Act No 68 of 1995 because no SAPS member can be a sentenced prisoner because of the above mentioned".
Minister Mthethwa cautioned that such actions and revelations should not be misconstrued to portray the majority of the committed SAPS members in bad light because there may be a few rotten elements.
"We have 190 000 members and it should be noted that in most cases, the 37 people arrested and convicted were initially arrested by other police officers and the investigations were carried out by police officers.
"This highlights that while there maybe a few rotten elements within the police, the service as a whole remains committed to rooting out such criminal elements," he added.
The tide against any corruption and criminality in society is shifting and this also translates to a change which must begin from within the force.
"As stated during the ministry's budget vote last month, in order to fight crime and fight it effectively, we need to recruit the right calibre of police officers. We understand that in the past, some people may have joined the force for ulterior reasons other than fighting crime.
"Going forward, we now want to place stringent conditions, with emphasis on attracting the most talented South Africans, while at the same time ensuring that those that are within, are morally upright, committed to defending the weak and vulnerable while serving with dedication," pointed out the Minister.
For enquiries, please contact:
Zweli Mnisi
Cell: 082 045 4024
Source: South African Police Service
