Pretoria - Police Minister Nathi Nhleko has encouraged newly trained police officials to always act ethically while protecting the communities.
Speaking during the passing out parade in Philiphi, Western Cape, the Minister told the officers who have completed the Basic Police Development Learning Programme to go and serve the people.
“This is not an easy task. This is not an easy calling but a calling it is nonetheless. It would be easier to tell you that the communities that you are now going to be released to will accept you with open arms.
“The reality is that we are sending you like sheep amongst wolves into a world that has varying degrees of respect and appreciation for the police.”
However, the SAPS management, he said, was aware of these challenges.
“We send you out understanding that your primary role is to protect life and yet, this may be achieved by having to take a life.
“We understand and appreciate that preventing crimes may require a certain level of deception and sometime an unwelcome intrusion into the lives and homes of our citizens.”
Despite this, he said, they have to exercise this power with care at all times.
He told them that if they do their job ethically, they would have achieved a significant advantage and legitimacy in the eyes of those they serve.
The best exercise of power lies in humility, Minister Nhleko said, adding that it is by treating every person irrespective of age, gender, race or sex with the ultimate respect they deserve. - SAnews.gov.za
