Faizel Patel, Radio Islam News – 10-05-2017
While volatile service delivery protests have erupted in many areas across South Africa, has anyone spared a thought for the police officers trying to instill calm during the demonstrations.
Protests in Coligny, Eldorado Park, Ennerdale, Kliptown, Laudium, Orange Farm and Vuwani amongst others have at times been extremely violent with shops being looted, houses being burnt and cars stoned.
Hundreds of police officers have been deployed to these areas risking their lives in the line of duty as they come under fire from demonstrators who hurl rocks and stones at them.
While some might argue that it’s police’s job to protect the country, officers also have a right to defend themselves against criminal elements.
Yesterday Police Minister Fikile Mbalula made an unannounced visit to the South African Police Service (SAPS) 10111 Call Center in Midrand.
Mbalula was connected to all SAPS vehicles from the Call Centre and used the opportunity to thank officers for their hard-work in keeping the country safe.
“We salute you for your dedication and the good work. I want to say to you, you are doing a very important job to keep our country safe and to protect our great nation. I know you are doing that at a great cost of your lives and at a great sacrifice of a job that is thankless because nobody says to you ‘job well done’”.
Mbalula urged officers to enforce law and order in communities and not to take bribes.
“Beware of the criminals at all times that they are on guard and they are relentless in their effort to render un-governability of crime in the republic. From the Minister of police ensuring that there is law and order in the republic, so let’s razzmatazz them.”
Mabalula says being a policeman is an honour and urged officers to continue serving the country with honesty and honour.
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