On Friday 18 October 2024, the latest batch of recruits graduated from South African Police Service (SAPS) training, with 559 graduating at Philippi Academy, and a further 454 at Oudtshoorn SAPS Academy.
Speaking at Philippi Academy, Deputy Minister of Police Polly Boshielo stated, “the training of these new Constables is part of our government’s efforts to strengthen the SAPS and enhance police visibility in all communities as we move with speed to advance our crime fighting initiatives.”
Further, she announced additional Constables who commenced their training in April, are currently undergoing training at various SAPS Academies throughout the country and will have their pass out parades in December.
Graduates at the Oudtshoorn SAPS Academy were welcomes by Deputy National Commissioner of Crime Detection, Lt General Sibiya, who emphasised the government’s commitment “to [ensuring] South Africa achieves the United Nations recommendation of one Police Officer for every 220 people.”
As of 2023, the police-to-population ratio stands 1:423, with Lt General Sibiya adding “we still need to work harder to recruit more Police Officers.”
Both Deputy Minister Boshielo and Lt General Sibiya underscored how the recruits are a “crucial part of our efforts to combat and prevent emerging crime trends.”
The new Constables will be deployed to police stations and specialised units throughout the country, including Public Order Police (POP), Visible Police (VISPOL), and the Family Violence, Child Protection, and Sexual Offences (FCS) unit. “This deployment is essential in bolstering our capacity to fight crime, addressing new crime trends, and tackling surges of old ones,” said Lt General Sibiya.
Lt General Sibiya further urged the new Constables “to remain vigilant and tactically alert at all times.” As criminals have become increasingly aggressive, Lt General Sibiya stated the safety of officers is paramount.
“Remember the street survival training, firearm use and tactical policing skills you have acquired during your training. I am informed that you have gained substantial insights into the legislation that governs policing and being a police officer. I therefore implore you to execute your duties within the confines of the law, resisting any temptation to engage in corruption or unethical conduct. Wear your uniform with pride and dignity and adhere to the SAPS Code of Conduct which you read earlier,” said Lt General Sibiya.
