Swartbooi's 36-year policing journey ends, but warns of corruption risks for new officers
Warrant Officer Joseph Swartbooi and Western Cape Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant General Thembisile Patekile.
Image: Supplied
After hanging up his badge after 36, Cape Town’s well-known police spokesperson warns young cops on how easily they can fall into a trap of corruption by starting with accepting a coke.
On Friday, October 31, Warrant Joseph Swartbooi completed his final day in the SAPS after starting his career in 1989.
Cape Argus asked Swartbooi what his advice was for young officers who were starting out in their careers.
He explained that to fall into the trap of corruption was as easy as accepting a small gift such as a coke and to respect your colleagues.
“Remain humble, yet firm in your values. If you are disciplined then you don’t have to answer for your actions. Remember that you are never greater than the organisation and never believe that anything is for mahala (for free),” he said.
“Once you accept a coke for free, it will follow with a favour you have to return. Always treat everyone with the same respect. Your colleague is today your junior, two years later the same colleague is on the same rank and two years later that colleague becomes your senior. If you were firm on values it will be easy to follow your leader wherever he/she leads.”
The SAPS said Swartbooi, 60, retires after an exemplary 36 years of loyal service.
Having joined the SAPS in 1989, Warrant Officer Swartbooi served in various capacities over the years, distinguishing himself through professionalism, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to the organisation’s values. Since 2018, he has been a vital member of the Communication Service, where his calm demeanor, clear communication, and dedication earned him the respect of both colleagues and members of the media.
. Warrant Officer Jospeph Swartbooi. pic supplied
Image: supplied
"Since 2021, he has been stationed at the Provincial Media Centre, where he played an instrumental role in facilitating accurate and timely communication between the SAPS and the public,” SAPS said.
“His ability to handle sensitive matters with discretion and professionalism has left a lasting mark on the team.”
Swartbooi added that his policing career saw him travel South Africa after being part of the band: "My application to be part of the SAPS family was directed at joining the SAPS Band.
“As a member of the SAPS Band I was privileged to travel to all provinces in South Africa. In the year 2010 I was identified to represent the SAPS at the Zurich Military Bands festival, involving bands from around the globe. This was truly an opportunity for networking as musicians to the extent that I still have communication with some of the band musicians I met on that specific tour.”
Upon his retirement, he thanked his wife Janine and children Tania and Taswell for their valuable support.
“During my 36 years in SAPS I travelled extensively and my wife Janine went the extra mile. As her husband I cannot repay her.
"Now my time belongs to us, and I look forward to making the most of our time together."