We have called this conference to deal with a number of issues that are bubbling in the public space. It is our view that some of these issues could have far-reaching implications if not handled or dealt with immediately.
Statements by political leaders
We have noted with serious concern reckless and inflammatory statements that have been ascribed to leaders of political parties. Whilst everyone has the right to freedom of speech, we would like to point out that that right is not absolute and has limitations especially in the case where such utterances have a potential of plunging the country into chaos.
We can confirm that a case has been opened in Hillbrow against the leader of the Economic Freedom Fighters regarding a statement about taking up arms against the state. Due process of investigation will be followed.
We would like to appeal to all the people to show responsibility and refrain from using the genuine grievances of the various communities to drive narrow political agendas that have the potential to destabilize the country.
Freedom Day and local government elections
Tomorrow we celebrate our Freedom Day. We are on the ground to ensure that all celebrations, wherever they are, proceed peacefully.
We are aware that a number of organisations and entities have decided to use this day to take to the streets to express to express themselves.
On our part, we will ensure that all these activities proceed smoothly and that all people be protected. But we would like to warn those that are out to cause chaos that police will not standby and allow them to tarnish such an important day.
We have already successfully policed the manifestos for local government elections to be held in August by different parties – African National Congress, Democratic Alliance, United Democratic Movement and we are also ready for the EFF launch at the weekend.
Again we would like to appeal to all leaders and law-abiding citizens to conduct their celebrations tomorrow in a responsible way. This freedom we are celebrating was not free.
We are also pleased with the role that police have played in ensuring that the two registration weekends went off with few incidents. Plans are afoot to ensure that the actual elections are conducted smoothly.
Maj Gen Vearey and MEC Plato public spat
We have noted with grave concern the public spat between the Deputy Provincial Commissioner for Detectives Major General Vearey and the MEC for Safety Mr Dan Plato. This kind of public spat does not inspire confidence and we have appointed the Divisional Commissioner for Detectives Lieutenant-General Nkomo to speedily investigate the allegations.
Both MEC Plato and General Vearey have agreed not to further communicate on the matter and allow the investigation to take its course.
Police killings
The Minister and the acting National Commissioner have expressed deep concern over the escalating attacks on police officials. We also note that our members have begun to embark increased methods to protect themselves especially the usage of bullet-proof vests.
Police have noted an unfortunate trend whereby no witnesses come forward with information on these dastardly acts. In two attacks in the Western Cape, police are struggling to get community members to not only support the bereaved but also seem reluctant to give information.
We call upon the communities to be active partners in helping police fight crime and corruption.
Police training
Much has been said about the supposed cutting of the training period for new recruits into the SAPS. Unfortunately, this has been wrongly communicated because in reality, the new training regime will better equip the new recruits than disadvantage them.
The training remains over the same period as before – 21 months. Recruits will spend the first month at a police station so that they become familiar with the environment. This will equip them with administrative skills of what exactly happens at a police station before they go to the academy for eight (8) months of intensive training. The recruits will then go on field training, as constables instead of just being trainees for a period of 12 months, which will also serve as the probationary period.
The comparison between the old and the new:
|
2012- 2015 |
2016 |
|
|
24 Month Programme |
21 Month Programme |
|
|
No Induction of trainees |
Induction of trainees included and practical placement at station level (one month) |
|
|
Academy Phase 10 months theory |
Academy Phase 8 months theory and practical exposure at police station under mentorship of trainer |
|
|
Weekends were excluded for training purposes |
Weekends are included for training purposes |
|
|
Field Police Development Phase (12 months) – practical training at stations |
Probation period performing operational duties (12 months) |
|
|
First Responder to Crowd Management (2 days) |
Crowd Management in full (3 weeks) |
|
|
Basic Tactical Techniques are included |
Advanced Tactical Techniques are included |
|
Training periods for other states/countries.
|
Countries/States |
Duration |
|
United Kingdom |
2 Years’ Probation inclusive of 38 Weeks Training |
|
New York |
16 Weeks |
|
Los Angeles |
6 Months |
|
Namibia |
6 Months |
|
South Africa |
8 Months Academy Training, 1 Month Induction and 12 Months’ Probation |
The Basic Training Learning Programme forms an integral part to uplift the South African Police Service and to ensure safety in South Africa. All the Academies follow the Implementation Strategy to ensure that Training is conducted according to the ETD Policy and all relevant ETD Guidelines. Training is also delivered in a manner that these new recruits can be deployed to fulfill their functions according to the Constitution and to improve service delivery, safety and security in the country.
Enquiries:
Musa Zondi
Cell: 076 331 4810
