Cape Town - More than 1000 SAPS trainees who were part of Project 10 000, graduated in Bishop Lavis on Friday.
Provincial police commissioner, Thembisile Patekile, said it was his honour to stand in front of the new constables.
“As we bring close to the 2024 Project 10 000 recruitment drive, I am honoured to preside over this significant occasion.
“Celebrating the commitment of these individuals who responded to the call when the South African police announced it was looking for fit and proper new recruits to join the ranks of the police, to serve and to protect the citizens of this country.
“Your decision to join SAPS reflects a noble commitment to creating a safe and secure environment for all.
“By coming forward when you were called, you have displayed the desire to serve the people of this country.
“You are joining the cadres of the exceptionally well-oiled machine in SAPS.
“I commend each one of you for completing the six-month in police development programme.”
Patekile told the constables to abide by the code of conduct, “even in their sleep”.
The National Community Police Board also congratulated 1 812 SAPS graduates of Project 10 000.
“This milestone marks a significant step towards bolstering law enforcement capacity as part of our national mission to create safer and more secure communities.
“These newly trained officers will play a critical role in ensuring the safety and well-being of all citizens, particularly as we approach the festive season.”
New recruit, Prudence Sekepane, 26, from the Northern Cape, said she joined SAPS after working at a psychiatric hospital.
“The members who came in really touched me so it made me want to join so I can make a difference in the organisation. I’m also following in my grandfather’s footsteps, he was a police officer back in the apartheid days, so my family is very happy about me joining the force.
“I didn’t even know that my grandpa was an officer, my sister informed me.”
Lundi Siwela, 25, from Hermanus, said there might not be much crime where he comes from, but there’s a lot to be done in the country and province.
“This crime - extortion, that always makes headlines in the news, I think that I will play a crucial role to combat and prevent it.
“I was very excited and proud to put on the uniform and I can’t wait to get to the streets.
“The badge comes with a lot of responsibility, which I am prepared to take on.
“I’m sure the training was quite good in terms of preparing us and enhancing our skills to fight crime and protect people and human rights and work with integrity.”
Cape Argus