SAPS commemorates fallen comrades

Police Minister Nkosinathi Nhleko has called on communities around South Africa to blow the whistle of people who conspire to kill members of the SAPS. Image: GCIS

Constable Ngoepe, who was stationed in Boksburg in Gauteng's East Rand, was 29-years-old when he was shot and killed.

"It is not easy to accept [his death]," said Ngoepe, who attended the South African Police Service (SAPS) National Commemoration Day at the Union Buildings on Sunday (7 September).

The National Commemoration Day honours the men and women employed by the SAPS who have lost their lives while on duty. Between 1 April last year and March this a total 68 police officers were killed in the line of duty.

"Today we are united in sadness. Today 68 names have been newly etched on the memorial wall," said Police Minister Nkosinathi Nhleko.

68 names etched onto SAPS memorial

Last year's ceremony commemorated 76 police officers who died while on duty.

"To the families of the 68 police employees whom mourn their loved ones and whose names have been etched on this wall, we grieve with you. We also celebrate your loved ones' lives with you and we urge you to remember that they died while serving their country and their fellow South Africans.

"They are true heroes and heroines," said Nhleko.

Commissioner Riah Phiyega also urged people to speak out against police killings and contact the authorities with information they my have. Image: SACSIS

The day, among other things, comprised of laying wreaths at the SAPS memorial site by the Minister, Deputy Minister Maggie Sotyu, National Police Commissioner General Riah Phiyega and the family members of fallen officers.

For some family members the ceremony brought tears to their eyes, for others it brought a sense of closure.

"Today we feel happy because we felt comforted," said Cecilia Thobela, whose youngest brother, Constable Bheki Thobela, was shot and killed in Secunda, in August last year.

Nhleko said it was the department's duty to ensure that the families of fallen members were taken care of. "Losing a loved one suddenly and under violent circumstances is a hugely traumatic experience," he said.

Education Trust

The SAPS's Education Trust was an example of SAPS's commitment to the men and women in uniform. The formation of the trust was announced four years ago and provides financial assistance to the children of members who die while on duty by financing their education.

It is funded by gifts, donations and sponsors from private persons, families and companies.

"Already a group of children have benefited through the trust and it has made a significant difference in their lives," said Nhleko.

He said Commemoration Day was a reminder of the extremely dangerous circumstances that police members work under.

"It is the duty of every law-abiding citizen who suspects that a police killer is living in their neighbourhood to blow the whistle and inform the authorities. As a nation we must stand together and say 'no more'," he said.

He said criminals lived in communities and it did not made sense to hide or shield them. Commissioner Phiyega urged South Africans to speak out against police killings.

"Let us do so in memory of those who have already died fighting for us," she said.