The Sebenza SAPS and its team of reservists are working hand-in-hand to combat crime in the Sebenza area.
The Sebenza SAPS communications officer, Sergeant Sharon Mahamba-Tsotsotso, said the reservists play an important role at the station because they are able to fill in when there is a need.
“The work they do is very important and it has a large impact on our work because not only are they capable of doing what we do as police officers, but they are also able to fill in when there is a gap,” said Sgt Tsotsotso.
A reservist is a person appointed as a member of the Reserve Police Service to render services as a volunteer in support of the SAPS.
They perform general policing functions at station level as part of the sector deployment, or in a unit if a specific operational need exists.
They are required to wear a uniform after successfully completing training.
She advised those who want to become reservists to inquire at the station.
According to the South African Police Services, the recruitment of new reservists must be based on the operational needs and priorities of the SAPS and the need to acquire specialised skills and competencies to ensure that suitable community members are recruited.
Emphasis is placed on recruiting suitable former members of the SAPS.
Such members should be encouraged to join as reservists to share their knowledge and experience.
The attention of prospective reservists must be drawn to the fact that their services are voluntary duties, without any remuneration, and that their position as a reservist does not ensure they will be appointed if they should apply for a permanent position in the SAPS.
Sgt Tsotsotso said the Sebenza SAPS has five reservists at the moment, who work in four-hour shifts.
