The South African Police Service (SAPS) senior management officially welcomed 220 newly appointed police constables at a ceremony held at the Mthatha Stadium in Mthatha last week. The new officers hail from the OR Tambo and Alfred Nzo Districts.
The Eastern Cape Acting Provincial Commissioner, Major General Thandiswa Kupiso, addressed the new recruits, urging them to uphold integrity, avoid corruption, and respect the communities they serve.
“We are here today to welcome constables who graduated from their colleges on August 15, 2025. They have been trained academically, physically and psychologically, but now they need to understand what it truly means to serve our people,” said Kupiso.
She emphasised the human-centred nature of police work, stating that they serve human beings. “Without people, this organisation would not exist. So, they must treat everyone with respect and compassion. When people come to their stations for help, they must feel welcome because they are their last hope.”
Kupiso also warned the new officers to stay away from places that sell alcohol, noting the risk of losing their firearms in such environments. “These firearms are meant for protection. When they fall into the wrong hands, they contribute to violent crime and increase the number of illegal firearms in our communities.”
She added that ongoing development would continue for the new constables, including management forums and further training opportunities.
The Deputy Provincial Commissioner for Support Services, Major General Nolitha Tito, reminded the constables that the real challenges of policing begin now. “You are now entering a harsh and unkind world. Crime is increasing, and your responsibility is to fight it. You have taken an oath to serve not just the Eastern Cape, but the entire country. You may be deployed anywhere,” said Tito.
She urged them to serve with discipline and integrity, warning against forming friendships with criminals. “You will be rewarded for good work but corrected when necessary. Do not let bad influences derail your career.”
Deputy Provincial Commissioner for Crime Detection, Major General Zithulele Dladla, also cautioned the recruits against being tempted by money through corrupt acts. “A million rand gained through crime is not worth your 20-year career; once you are caught, it is over. Choose the right path. You will learn many things from your colleagues; pick the good, not the bad,” he advised.
The event marked the beginning of the new constables’ policing careers, with high expectations set by SAPS leadership for ethical conduct, commitment, and professionalism.
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