The Minister of Police, Nkosinathi Nhleko, urged the nation to stand together and say no to criminals who gun down police officers.
The minister made the call at the South African Police Service’s (SAPS) National Commemoration Day of police officers who died in the line of duty, held at the Union Buildings on Sunday.
When this year’s event took place, 68 names of members of the police who died between 1 April 2013 and 31 May 2014, had been newly engraved on the memorial wall situated in the gardens of the Union Buildings.
These police officers died in various incidents, including shootouts with criminals and road accidents.
Minister Nhleko said the sombre event reminded the government that the men and women who had responded to the noble call to serve and protect, performed those duties under extremely dangerous conditions.
He said the criminals who kill police, live within the community and the community should stand up to stop the police killers.
“It is the duty of every law-abiding citizen who knows or suspects that a police killer lives in their neighbourhood to blow the whistle,” Nhleko said. Nhleko thanked the police for their sacrifices and the difference they make in society.
In attendance were family members of the 68 police officers who died during the past financial year.
They had the opportunity to pay their respects again to fallen heroes and heroines who died while serving their country.
Some could not hold back their tears and again felt the pain of losing their loved ones.
A widow, Nokuphiwa Mjoni, said the event and support from SAPS helps them with the healing process.
“We thanked police for their role of taking care of us in the absence of our husbands. We feel happy together with our children,” Mjoni.
Mjoni’s husband, Harrison, died in a car accident on 19 December, last year. Harrison left his wife with four children.
National Commissioner of police Riah Phiyega told the gathering that they should not only mourn their passing but also rejoice in their living, celebrate their courage and dedication, and be thankful for their existence and the light they cast upon lives of the people.
“Although we are gathered in grief we must not let emotions overcome us,” Phiyega said.
She thanked members of the police for making the country a safer place and their families for supporting and allowing them to serve the country with patriotism and dignity.
Phiyega urged police to continue the good fight to make citizens and visitors of the country feel safe.
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