Pretoria: As the South African Police Service (SAPS) launches its safer festive season operations, National Police Commissioner General Fannie Masemola has issued a stern warning against attacks on police officers. Masemola emphasized that any attempts to obstruct police officers from performing their duties in crime prevention and combating will be met with the full force of the law.

According to South African Government News Agency, General Masemola declared that an attack on a police officer is tantamount to an attack on the state and national security. He highlighted that interfering with police officers during their duties constitutes an offence under Section 67 of the South African Police Service Act, 1995. Police officials are authorized to use reasonable force to overcome such resistance or hindrance.

General Masemola stressed the personal sacrifices made by police officers, who leave their families to ensure the safety of all individuals within South Africa’s borders. He called on South Africans to protect police officers and actively oppose attacks and killings. Community cooperation is essential in rooting out crime, and respect for the law supports SAPS’s efforts.

The Commissioner pointed out that obstructing police duties implicates community members in criminal activities and undermines crime reduction efforts. The SAPS has a constitutional mandate to prevent, combat, and investigate crime, maintain public order, and uphold the law, as outlined in section 205(3) of the South African Constitution.

He acknowledged the challenges of policing, noting that while others flee from danger, police officers confront it to protect communities. As the SAPS intensifies operations against serious crimes such as armed robberies and cash-in-transit heists, the Commissioner urged the public to support police officers.

General Masemola condemned the recent attack on a female police officer in Kimberley, commending the arrest of the perpetrators as a deterrent against attacks on police and acts of gender-based violence. He praised police officers for their restraint and professionalism in preventing loss of life.

Masemola urged the public to collaborate with police during festive season operations and report any misconduct. He emphasized respect for the police uniform and encouraged officers to perform their duties diligently and within legal boundaries.

The Commissioner reiterated the priority of officer safety and readiness, supported by ongoing training, operational preparedness, and modern safety equipment.