Over the past month the South African Police Service (SAPS) has successfully secured two international sporting events which took place in our country, maintaining our track record as world-leaders in hosting safe major events. We are also providing security to two other leading sporting tournaments being presented in South Africa.
After 11 July 2010, when the 2010 FIFA World Cup had ended, the foreign teams and fans left our shores and South Africa returned to normal, the SAPS immediately began preparations for the next sporting events during which we were to host international teams.
The National Commissioner of the SAPS General Bheki Cele has commended the men and women in blue for their well documented professionalism that not only raised the South African flag high, but also put the whole of Africa on the international policing map. “The South African Police Service is proud to be able to contribute towards the success of all international sporting events taking place in South Africa and will continue to serve and protect our citizens and all visitors with respect,” said Cele.
The Airtel Champions League Twenty20 Cricket Tournament took place between 10 and 26 September 2010 and featured teams from India, Australia, the West Indies, Sri Lanka and South Africa. Twenty-three (23) games were played in Johannesburg, Pretoria, Durban and Port Elizabeth and the ten (10) playing teams were transported to various parts of the country. All matches were played in a safe and secure environment and all teams were extremely satisfied with the security arrangements provided.
Immediately after this tournament, South Africa hosted the Danone Nations Cup which can be described as the Soccer World Cup for youngsters between the ages of 10 and 12 years. The Danone Nations Cup has been hosted in France over the past 10 years and the 2010 tournament was the first time it was hosted in another country. This event took place in Gauteng between 28 September and 3 October 2010 and 80 teams comprising of 1 200 children participated. Again, the South African Police Service can proudly state that all matches – including the final at the Orlando Stadium in Soweto – were concluded safely and peacefully and all children returned to their home countries with fond memories of their time in South Africa.
The Zimbabwe Cricket Tour to South Africa started on Friday, 8 October 2010 and the South African Police Service has already started with our security operations to ensure that this tournament can be enjoyed by all South Africans and visitors to our country. Five matches will take place between 8 and 22 October 2010 in Bloemfontein, Kimberley, Potchefstroom and Benoni and all necessary plans are in place to secure the matches and players.
Source: South African Police Service
