Corrupt Cops – charges against three officers welcomed

Statement by Dan Plato, Western Cape Minister of Community Safety

I welcome the continued action the South African Police Service (SAPS) is taking in the Western Cape against police officers that think they are above the law.

The most recent incident sees three police officials nabbed for various charges including defeating the ends of justice and corruption.

The SAPS have my full support as there is no place in the Western Cape for corruption.

I believe there is nothing as damaging for the SAPS as the breakdown in the relationship between them, as custodians of the rule of law, and communities. Police officers cannot become part of the crime they are supposed to prevent and combat.

In order to rebuild the lost trust between the SAPS and communities, it is important to shine a light on every case of cops becoming criminals. An officer in service who even considers committing a crime has to know: You will be caught and you will have to face the full might of the law.

Western Cape Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant General Khombinkosi Jula has the unwavering support of the Provincial Government to ensure we root out the rot within the service.

The war on gangs, drugs and illegal guns can never be won if police officers are in cahoots with the criminals. Dirty cops are not the norm and tarnish the hard work done by the SAPS in the province.

I salute every clean cop who diligently tries their best to protect our communities. I thank every individual who raises the alarm on corruption and illegal activities – regardless of whether the offender holds a position of authority.