POLICE YOUTH PROTECTING OUR - PROTECTING OUR FUTURE - Saps
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JUNE 2019 | FREE
POLICE
YO U R O F F I C I A L F R E E S A P S M AGA Z I N E
PROTECTING OUR
YOUTH
PROTECTING OUR FUTURE
ON A JOURNEY TO A SAFER SOUTH AFRICA
#Selfless&PatrioticService
CONTENTS 01
POLICE
The POLICE magazine is published by
02 National Commissioner’s 14 EHW - Suicide in the SAPS the Publications and Broadcast Section
of Corporate Communication.
Message HEAD:
16 Flash News CORPORATE COMMUNICATION
Maj Gen SA de Beer
03 Africa Public Service Day SUB-SECTION HEAD:
18 Viva Fitness INTERNAL PUBLICATIONS
Col Linda van den Berg
04 SONA 2019 012 393 7075
20 Cybercrime Strategy SUBEDITOR
Lt Col Fundiswa Maphanga-Nkosi
06 Child Protection Week 012 393 7104
21 Missing Persons JOURNALISTS:
Lt Col Erica Holtzhausen
08 Take a Child to Work 012 393 7106
22 Wanted Persons Capt Keitumetse Mmushi
012 393 7138
10 Raising Resilient Children Capt Vincent Mukhathi
012 393 7088
Capt Kgabo Mashamaite
12 SAPS-Sudan Deployments 012 393 7151
WO Percy Sepaela
012 393 7108
LAYOUT
The President of youth, for they are the future of this nation. WO Henk Venter
South Africa, His Our efforts to do this include, observing COVER
Mount Road Cluster Communication
Excellency Cyril Child Protection Week yearly, where our
men and women in dignified blue across PHOTOGRAPHERS:
Ramaphosa, in his WO Theo van Wyk
recent State of the the country, teach children about their 012 393 7103
Nation Address rights and what to do when these rights are WO Ndanduleni Nyambeni
violated (pp 6 – 7). To protect our children, 012 393 7279
held on 20 June
2019, emphasised we must also develop them as individuals LANGUAGE EDITING BY:
Lt Col Ilze-Mari Visagie
the pivotal role that so they can play an active role in protecting Capt Maurene Claasens
themselves and others. SAPS POLICE ONLINE:
government and Lt Col Johan Heüer
public servants 012 393 7030
It is crucial that we give our children and heuer@saps.gov.za
play in the achievement of the country’s
their parents the tools for children to REPUBLISHING
objectives for a better nation as set out in withstand difficulties effectively as we Permission to republish articles
the National Development Plan, 2030. cannot be everywhere or with them all
contained in the POLICE may be
obtained from the Head: Corporate
the time. These methods of circumventing Communication. The opinions
As President Ramaphosa stated (pp 4 – 5), expressed in the POLICE are
challenges (pp 10 – 11) should be imparted not necessarily those of the Head:
South Africa can only move forward if we, to children as early as possible in their Corporate Communication, his staff
or of the POLICE authorities.
as public servants, deliver on our respective childhood as studies show that early
key performance areas and conduct INDEMNITY
intervention, breeds well-rounded children Contributions, photographs and
ourselves ethically. The SAPS, along with who finish school, find appropriate means other material sent to the POLICE for
publication must be accompanied
the rest of the continent, celebrated the to generate income and are less likely to by a stamped and self-addressed
annual Africa Public Service Day (APSD) commit violent crime.
envelope. Contributions are returned
at the risk of the contributor. The
just days after the SoNA, on 23 June 2019, POLICE reserves the right to effect
to remind ourselves of the importance of Equally important, is to provide children
changes to any contribution.
good governance and the need for having with much-needed extracurricular
COPYRIGHT POLICE
Copyright reserved
integrity in all our endeavours as public activities, such as the SAPS Junior
servants. Commissioner Project and the ‘Take a Child
to Work’ (pp 8 - 9) to engage their energy,
APSD (p3) underscores youth involvement showcase job opportunities in the SAPS
What in the country’s progression to a better so the youth can be interested in policing,
living environment for all. The SAPS has and give them as sense of ‘family’ that
always been cognisant of the power of the they would otherwise seek from negative
next generation and has put the youth at elements.
the centre of many of the organisation’s
crime prevention and awareness initiatives. It is only through working as a collective,
This is exhibited with the existence and engaging the public and collaborating with
implementation of the SAPS Youth Crime the youth that we can build a better South
Prevention Strategy, which guides all our @ SAPoliceService
Africa for all – where all people live in
programmes and policies concerning the prosperity, equality, harmony and safety. South African
youth.
Police Service
Major General Sally de Beer
We can only secure and enhance the (SAPS Official Page)
prospects of this country by protecting our www.saps.gov.za
02 POLICE JUNE 2019 JUNE 2019 POLICE 03
The safety of our men and women in blue is high on the agenda of the
SAPS and ensuring the safety of all our members is at the core of the
SAPS’s strategic imperatives. As such, we launched a National Police
Safety Plan to strengthen the implementation of the Police Safety Strategy
SAPS COMMEMORATES AFRICA
PUBLIC SERVICE DAY
to eradicate attacks on and the unnatural deaths of police officers. Some
of our initiatives toward this goal is inclusive of a checklist to be adhered
to, regularly conducting refresher tactical courses so that members’ skills
are always in top form, as well as offering Employee Health and Wellness
programmes to ensure members’ mental health so they can perform By Capt Kgabo Mashamaite
optimally, among others. We urge all our police officers to make use of
all the programmes and resources available to them so that they can be
prepared for the war against crime at all times. The strategy also includes
involving members of the public in our endeavours to stop police murders
as they have a negative impact on the service delivery of the SAPS in
the fight against crime. Working with the community, we will ultimately
T he SAPS, along with other government
departments, affords due recognition to
the working conditions and quality of public
the conference of the African Ministers for Public and/or
Civil Service held in Tangier, Morocco in 1994 to recognise
the value and virtue of service to the community through
inculcate a culture where everyone appreciates, values and protects our annual, national and biennial continental events. The DPSA
officials who diligently serve the inhabitants of also says that APSD is also a platform to reflect on and
NATIONAL COMMISSIONER’S MESSAGE men and women in blue.
the country through the annual commemoration share practical recommendations on the upliftment of
Though our lives are under attack, we cannot and will not deviate from of Africa Public Service Day (APSD) on 23 June women in the public service across the continent.
GENERAL KHEHLA JOHN SITOLE our call to protect our beautiful nation. To safeguard South Africa, we 2019.
Appealing to members of the SAPS to celebrate APSD and
must protect our children as they are the country’s future. We continue to
support its objectives, the National Commissioner of the
implement multidisciplinary approaches to address the alarming rates of The celebration of APSD aims at discovering innovations
I t is disheartening that I have to begin this month’s SAPS, General Khehla Sitole said: “The SAPS will participate
child abuse in South Africa. The most notable being the Family Violence, and motivating public servants to further promote
message to employees of our beloved SAPS lamenting in APSD celebrations and engage in specific actions within
Child Protection and Family Violence (FCS) Units to give special attention innovation, as well as rewarding excellence in, enhancing
the organisation to support initiatives on the approved
the brutal attacks on the very men and women, who fulfil to cases of child abuse so that our qualified police officers, working in the professionalism of, raising the image of, and enhancing
theme. There is no need to be extravagant in spending, but
their gallant pledge to serve and protect the people in conjunction with the Department of Social Development, can support victims trust in the public service. To do this, we collect, document
there should be activities within the day-to-day duties.”
this country under dangerous circumstances daily. Our of abuse effectively. and share best practices for possible replication within our
members are under attack at all hours of the day, whether country, as well as across Africa.
Our long-standing Protocol on Crime and Violence in Schools with the In celebrating the APSD 2019, employees of the SAPS
they are on or off duty. In a mere three months into this designed a Public Servants’ Pledge to be signed by all
Department of Basic Education, where schools are linked to police stations Themed ‘The Intersection of Youth Empowerment and
financial year, the SAPS already has 28 unnatural deaths of members in June. Police officials, once again, signed the
and specific Social Crime Prevention Officers, who conduct crime prevention Migration: Entrenching a Culture of Good Governance,
police officers on the record, this against the 229 suffered in and awareness initiatives according to the school’s needs, has also assisted Information Communication Technology and Innovation for
Code of Conduct and Code of Ethics to re-pledge their vow
the 2018/2019 fiscal year. in the fight to safeguard our children. Inclusive Service Delivery’, the APSD 2019 strives toward
to adhere to the content of the Codes when delivering public
services. Members were also reminded of all the Employee
giving recognition to and making known the importance
The fatal shooting of 28-year-old Constable Nhlamulo Vuyeka of the Moroka Health and Wellness programmes, such as Suicide
One of the most recent efforts to engage children is the SAPS’s active of the public service and public servants, as well as
Police Station in Soweto, Gauteng, while attempting to conduct a random Prevention, Substance Abuse, Financial Management,
participation in celebrating Child Protection Week, which has been observed acknowledging their positive contribution to citizens, civil
stop-and-search of a suspicious-looking vehicle on 20 June 2019, is the Anger Management, Relationship Building, Ethics and Anti-
throughout South Africa annually for the past 21 years to raise awareness society, the private sector and government as a whole.
most recent of the ongoing ruthless attacks on our men and women in of the rights of children. Our Social Crime Prevention members unceasingly corruption, as well as Stress Management that are available
dignified blue. The SAPS will afford Constable Vuyeka’s family, as with all to them so that they can be at their optimal health to better
embark on educating children from the levels of crèche to high school about According to the custodian of APSD in the country, the
members who perish in the line of duty, with all the necessary support in serve the public.
their rights, as well as what to do when those rights have been violated. In Department of Public Services and Administration
their time of bereavement. addition to this, the SAPS keeps an open line of communication and trust (DPSA), the decision to celebrate APSD was a result of
with children through ongoing projects such as the ‘Safer Schools’, ‘Junior
The continued callous onslaught on our police officers is an attack on the Police Commissioners’ and ‘Take a Child to Work’ projects, which involve
authority of our State, which will continue to be punished heavily so that it children in crime-fighting and moral regeneration initiatives, as well as
may eventually come to an end. The three suspects involved in Constable provide them with productive extracurricular activities and teach them
Vuyeka’s shooting have already been apprehended. No matter how long it essential social skills. The SAPS family gives children a sense of belonging,
takes for the wheels of justice to turn, police murderers do pay the price for which could otherwise be sought in gang affiliation. The onus to protect
their gruesome crimes. Most recently, the Mthunzini High Court in KwaZulu- children and build a safer South Africa for all, is on every person in South
Natal convicted and sentenced Msawenkosi Ngema (29) to life imprisonment Africa. I thank all SAPS employees for dedicating themselves to the success
for the murder of Warrant Officer Jerico Mdletshe and five years’ of these crime prevention and awareness projects.
imprisonment for the attempted murder of Constable Senzo Ndwandwe,
who he shot while fleeing a crime scene in November 2015. I would also like to appreciate and thank all the members who were
involved in ensuring that President Cyril Ramaphosa’s State of the Nation
We commend the perseverance of the dedicated members of the Detective Address (SoNA) on 20 June 2019 was conducted in a peaceful environment.
Services Division, who worked tirelessly to secure a combined nine life The National Joint and Operational Structure as the operational arm of the
imprisonment terms for police murderers. The Mthatha High Court in the Justice, Crime Prevention and Security Cluster delivered on their mandate
Eastern Cape sentenced six suspects to life imprisonment each, for killing to provide safety and security during the SoNA. This was an incident-free
Warrant Officer Mawethu Siganga when he and his crew responded to an event because every law enforcement official deployed to the SoNA applied
armed robbery in July 2012. Detectives ensured that justice was served fundamental policing principles, as guided by the Constitution of South
for three police officers, who were murdered between 2016 and 2017, both Africa, and executed their responsibilities professionally, impartially and
on and off duty in three separate instances. These amounted to three life with integrity. Thank you – you made your country proud.
terms for three suspects and a cumulative 32 years’ imprisonment for two
suspects. Though these sentences do not bring our members back, we can ON A JOURNEY TO A SAFER SOUTH AFRICA
only hope that they bring closure to their colleagues and loved ones. #FightingCrime
04 POLICE JUNE 2019 JUNE 2019 POLICE 05
PRESIDENT RAMAPHOSA FOCUSES ON
NDP 2030 OBJECTIVES
By Capt Vincent Mukhathi
P resident Cyril Ramaphosa has urged all
government departments and agencies,
including the SAPS, to dedicate all their
resources and energy in pursuit of the objectives
of the National Development Plan (also known
as Vision 2030).
In his third State of the Nation Address (SoNA) on 20 June 7 000 in each cycle for the next two intakes,” said President • Consolidating social wage through reliable and goals, we would have fundamentally transformed our
2019, President Ramaphosa emphasised the importance Ramaphosa. quality basic services society,” said President Ramaphosa.
of defining a South Africa we all want more clearly and He further emphasised that, to achieve the set objectives,
agreeing on the concrete actions needed to achieve it as He further explained the importance of a collaboration • Spatial integration, human settlement and local the government needed professional and ethical public
South Africa entered the last decade of the attainment of between the police and communities, as well as police government servants who are free from corruption.
Vision 2030. forums to fight crime and create a safe environment for all.
• Social cohesion and safe communities “We are committed to building an ethical State in which
“We must restore the National Development Plan to its place “Violent crime is a societal problem that requires a there is no place for corruption, patronage, rent-seeking, nor
at the centre of our national effort to make it alive, to make holistic, society-wide response. The South Africa we want, • A capable, ethical and developmental State plundering of public money. We want a corps of skilled and
it part of the lived experience of the South African people,” is a country where all people are safe and feel safe. Let professional public servants of the highest moral standards
said President Ramaphosa. us therefore work together to ensure that violent crime • A better Africa and World. – who are dedicated to the public good,” said President
is at least halved over the next decade,” said President Ramaphosa.
The National Development Plan (NDP)’s Vision is that, in Ramaphosa. In addition to these, President Ramaphosa called on the
2030, people living in South Africa, must feel safe at home, country to tackle poverty, inequality and unemployment, in
at school and at work − that they enjoy community life Highlighting the progress made in terms of community- the next 10 years, by agreeing to work toward ensuring that:
without fear, that women walk freely in the street and police partnership, President Ramaphosa said: “We are
children play safely outside. working with civil society organisations on strategies to end • No person in South Africa will go hungry.
gender-based violence and femicide. Following intensive
According to the NDP, safety and security should be consultations and engagements, we are working toward the • Our economy will grow at a much faster rate than
prioritised because it directly impacts on socio-economic establishment of a Gender-based Violence and Femicide our population.
development and equality, which affects the development Council, and a National Strategic Plan that will guide all of
objectives of economic growth and transformation, us, wherever we are, in our efforts to eradicate this national • Two million more young people will be in
employment creation, improved education and health scourge,” said President Ramaphosa. employment.
outcome, as well as strengthened social cohesion.
In addition to this, President Ramaphosa said that the • Our schools will have better educational outcomes
Therefore, to strengthen safety and security, the government is currently capacitating and equipping the and every 10-year-old will be able to read for
government will be increasing the number of police police and court system to support the survivors of gender- meaning.
members in police trainee intakes to increase police based violence. The President also stated that the SAPS was
visibility in ensuring that citizens are and feel safe. stepping up the fight against drug syndicates through the • Violent crime will be halved.
implementation of the revised National Drug Master Plan.
“The first step is to increase police visibility by employing He also pointed out that all South Africa’s programmes and
more policewomen and policemen, and to create a more President Ramaphosa also outlined seven priorities that policies in all departments and agencies, would be directed
active role for citizens through effective community policing should be focused on to move South Africa forward, namely: in pursuit of these overarching tasks.
forums. Currently, there are more than 5 000 students
registered for basic training at our police training colleges, • Economic transformation and job creation “Let us make these commitments now to ourselves and to
and we envisage that this number will be increased to each other – knowing that they will stretch our resources
• Education, skills and health and capabilities, but understanding that if we achieve these
06 POLICE JUNE 2019 JUNE 2019 POLICE 07
CHILD PROTECTION WEEK POLICE IN KWAGGAFONTEIN
FOCUS ON CHILD SAFETY EDUCATING CHILDREN IN SPEND DAY WITH PRESCHOOLERS
By Capt Winnie Mabena
By Capt Colette Weilbach
KABEGA PARK
P olice from the Brooklyn Police Station in
Pretoria, Gauteng, observed Child Protection
By Col Priscilla Naidu
T he police in
Kwaggafontein,
Mpumalanga, recently
Week with a visit to the local Little Footsteps
Nursery School on 30 May 2019. celebrated Child
Protection Week with
All the little ones made their own police caps and some preschool children and
were even dressed in makeshift police uniform. The children their educators at the
were very excited to try out the bullet-resistant vests, tonfa, Kwaggafontein Police
handcuffs and a police siren. • Know the 10111 emergency
number and what to do during Station.
Members taught the children the 10111 emergency number an emergency
• Know that it is OK to say “NO” More than 120 children and
and told them to call it whenever they felt unsafe. Thanking
when they are faced with 15 educators from 13 crèches in Kwaggafontein’s Sector Two
the SAPS for the visit, the children recited a police poem for
uncomfortable situations policing precinct, that is, Kwaggafontein Sections B, C and D, as
the police officers in attendance.
• Know that no one may touch well as Vreisgewagt, participated in a police-led peaceful march
them in a way that makes them from the Thandanani Crèche to the police station, carrying posters
It is incumbent on everybody to play a role in protecting
feel uncomfortable depicting their rights demands, and slogans that their rights
children and creating a safe and secure environment for
• Check with their parents before should not be violated.
them. Parents and caretakers must keep an open line of
communication and trust with children. They should also
know where their children are at all times and be observant
so they can identify any abnormal behaviour by their
accepting gifts from anyone,
or before going anywhere,
or getting into a vehicle with
P olice in Port Elizabeth’s Kabega Park,
Eastern Cape, observed Child Protection
Week with learners from the Kuyga Public
The Head of Supply Chain Management at the Kwaggafontein
Police Station and the Acting Station Commander on the day,
somebody – even if they know Captain Mampipi Madisha, welcomed the children and their
children. Primary School recently.
them. educators to the police station. While the station’s Communication
Officer, Captain Winnie Mabena, with the help of Sergeant
The SAPS urges all to take note of the following safety tips. This initiative was conducted by the SAPS’s Family Violence, Nomvula Masombuka and Constable Thabile Maphanga,
Communities are urged to report
Child Protection and Sexual Offences Unit, and the Mounted sensitised the children about their right to shelter, health care,
Children should: any suspicious persons, vehicles
Unit in Port Elizabeth, as well as the province’s Community basic nutrition, education and social services, as well as their
or circumstances to the police,
Policing Forum and the Department for Safety and Liaison. right to be protected from any kind of abuse or neglect.
• Not be left alone at home or elsewhere, such as a immediately, by phoning the 10111 Captain Patricia Mushwana from Social
emergency number. Crime Prevention and Warrant Officer
shopping centers, where they can become susceptible Chappies Chabedi, a Field Training Officer, The visit aimed at educating learners on their rights as Police officials told the children to not trust or be around
to abuse, alcohol and/or drug use enjoying time with preschoolers. children in South Africa, teaching them what constitutes
Information regarding crime can be strangers and to not accept food, sweets, or money from
• Be accompanied to public rest rooms domestic violence and urging them to report it, as well as
given to the police anonymously by strangers as they might be kidnapped. The members also
• Know their full names, residential address and deterring them from bullying and telling them to report it.
phoning 08600 10111. encouraged the children to memorise their parents’ names and
parents’ phone numbers
their residential addresses in case they get lost. Members also
Members also discouraged learners from using drugs told the children that no one is allowed to touch their private
and warned them about the consequences thereof. A parts and that they should report it to an adult, teacher or police
rehabilitated drug addict also gave a moving testimony official, should somebody touch them in a way that makes them
CHILD PROTECTION WEEK DRAWS TO CLOSE on how he turned his life around to become a successful
person.
uncomfortable.
Capt Sergio Kock Due to the number of incidents of children mimicking sexual
The children listened
attentively and were all The Mounted Unit and its adopted dog, Moertjie, along with acts with other children in preschools, the children were also
about 60 children and teachers led a procession through
T
rewarded with SAPS encouraged to tell their parents that they should not share a
he police in the Northern Cape closed off the streets of Kuyga, handed out pamphlets and conducted
colouring books with room with them, or tell their educators if they do sleep with both
the Child Protection Week at Vals Beautiful safety hints inside, a door-to-door crime prevention campaign. Members urged parents because it is inappropriate to be in the room when their
Beginnings Preschool in De Beers, Kimberley. stationery and party the community to not mete out mob justice and to rather parents do “adult” things.
packs. report unlawful deeds and criminals to the police.
The Provincial Corporate Communication and Liaison Captain Mabena reminded educators that child protection is
Captain Sabata Tsiu giving preschoolers safety tips
Services, Visible Policing and Human Resource Utilisation Members of the SAPS during a Child Protection Week event. The children were treated to food hampers and beverages, everyone’s business and cautioned them against the abuse of
Units, the Galeshewe and Kimberley Family Violence, Child also fingerprinted the which were generously sponsored by local businesses in children at their crèches.
Protection and Sexual Offences (FCS) Units, as well as the children on certificates that were filed at the preschool to be the Kabega Park area.
SAPS’s Women’s Network and Men for Change held a Child kept with the educators for use in case of emergency, such Appreciating the SAPS for their involvement in child protection
Protection Week campaign at the preschool on 11 June as when a child goes missing. Emphasising the importance of keeping the youth safe, on behalf of all the crèches in attendance, Ms Tracy Mdluli, an
2019. the Spokesperson of the SAPS in Port Elizabeth, Colonel educator at Thandanani Crèche, said: “We thank the police for a
The children entertained the police with beautiful poetry and Priscilla Naidu said: “The youth and our children remain one warm welcome at the station. These lessons are sure to keep our
Lieutenant Colonel Marli Strydom and Captain Sabata singing the South African National Anthem and other well- of our greatest assets as the change-makers and innovators children safe. The love and humanity you showed us, really built
Tsiu from FCS conducted informative safety talks with known songs. of our country, therefore their safety and well-being is of the children’s trust in the police.”
the children who were all between four and six-years-old. utmost importance.”
08 POLICE JUNE 2019 JUNE 2019 POLICE 09
TAKE A CHILD TO WORK
“TAKE A CHILD TO WORK”
CAMPAIGN UNDER THE THEME #MORETHANADAY
By Lt Col Erica Holtzhausen
Photographs by WO Ndanduleni Nyambeni and Amos Ndlovu
T he SAPS participated, once again, in the
‘Take a child to work’ campaign in various
provinces and divisions, including Head office.
At Technology Management Services (TMS), the learners
had the opportunity to see what role information technology
played in the fight against crime. TMS Radio Technical gave a
demonstration on how radio communication worked, including
The campaign celebrated its 17th anniversary the technical side of it, which enables operational police
under the theme #MoreThanADay. members to communicate effectively.
A total of 200 learners from several schools in Pretoria A total of 20 of the learners were taken to the SAPS’s
visited various South African Police Service (SAPS) divisions Broadcasting Unit to see how the TV programme, “When Duty
and components on 30 May 2019. On 31 May 2019, the same Calls”, is put together. Some learners had the opportunity to
learners gathered at the SAPS Tshwane Academy for a career “present” the programme, others did voice overs and some
expo and motivational talks. learners were taken to the editing suites to “edit” the video
material taken at the inauguration of President Ramaphosa.
The SAPS used the event as an additional opportunity to reach Later in the morning, the Head of Corporate Communication,
out to young people and market the SAPS as an employer of Maj Gen Sally de Beer welcomed the 20 learners to the
choice to achieve the objectives of the National Development SAPS Museum. The group then split in half, with ten of them
Plan, Vision 2030 - to promote economic growth and increase visiting Legal Services while the rest of the learners were
the availability of jobs. accommodated by Lt Col Baratang Pelle and Captain Tintswalo
Thobane of Corporate Image and Graphics.
Maj Gen Mathonsi of the Visible Policing Division said that the
day was not only about careers in the SAPS, but also to educate The officers explained that they communicate in a visual way
to educate communities about SAPS issues, for example, they The learners were taken to various components and sections within the SAPS such
learners in grade eight up to grade 12 on what police work as the Broadcasting Unit, Corporate Image (Graphics section), Legal component and
encompasses of. created a poster about what one should do when a friend or Forensics to get insight in what police members do every day.
loved one goes missing.
“More importantly for this age, is the lack of understanding
Lt Col Pelle indicated that the blue and gold corporate colours page settings, etc. In the SAPS’s Corporate Communication
of what police work entails. We will educate them on the wide
on the poster already indicate that it is communication from environment alone, there are many career options, such as
variety of career opportunities we have in the SAPS and we
the SAPS. The rest of the poster contains very important media, journalism, photography, videography and duties of a
spend time listening to their challenges, so that we can adjust
information about missing persons, for example that you do language practitioner. Learners living with a disability from
our programmes to respond to those challenges”, explained Maj
not have to wait 24 hours before reporting a person missing. It Filadelphia School, visited Language Management, and were
Gen Mathonsi.
also tells you which documents you have to take with you to the received and welcomed by Capt Moshidi Kabeng. Chaplain
police station, when you want to report a person as missing. Thobejane-Makhurupetsi from EHW kick-started the day
Both Lt Col Pelle and Capt Thobane explained that they are with prayer and they thanked her for gracing them with her
Lt Col Baratang Pelle explained the layout of pages, logos, page settings, etc
in the internal Police magazine, other annual SAPS reports and the annual normally working on between three to five different projects presence.
Excellence Awards booklets and posters. at once. Various divisions and components need graphic and
corporate image work done and it becomes hectic when they all They started their day having refreshments and were later
want it instantly, putting the members under lots of pressure. taken through the section for orientation. After the orientation,
Capt Kabeng briefed them about the roles and responsibilities organisational structure makes it possible for the organisation
“It is therefore imperative for you to know exactly what you of a language practitioner. They were given short translating to absorb candidates from a vast range of study fields to
want to do when you choose a career. It is only because I love and editing exercises on hard copy. Each task they were complement their support personnel. These study fields
what I am doing and am inspired by it, that I can handle the assigned to do, they were working in pairs to make it easier include Psychology, Social Work, Forensics, Human Resources,
stress and pressure. I really love my job, therefore I know that I for them. They were actively involved and showed some Law, Administration, Communication, Finance and Auto
made the right career choice”, said Lt Col Pelle. enthusiasm despite their challenges. Mechanics, to name but a few.
Both officers urged the learners to do thorough research
about the careers that they are interested in. They explained After all the activities of the day, each of the 10 learners, One of the grade 10 learners from Kutumela-Molefi High
that ending up in the wrong job, can make one’s life extremely was awarded with a certificate of participation to show their School, Kamogelo Khoza, said that being a part of the SAPS’s
miserable. involvement in the campaign. The learners indicated that they ‘Take a child to work’ campaign has taught her that choosing a
experienced an unforgettable day at Language Management. career, requires passion, dedication and being well-informed.
The learners were then handed copies of the internal Police On Friday, 31 May 2019, the learners attended a career expo She said that she was surprised by the many exciting careers in
magazine, annual SAPS reports and the annual Excellence to experience even more of the wide choice of careers that the police and that she was looking forward to studying Social
Awards booklets so that they could see what the officers the SAPS have to offer. On the day, the learners could see that Work and then join the SAPS so that she can assist employees
meant when they were talking about the layout of pages, logos, SAPS employs more than just law enforcement officials. The with any challenges they might experience.
10 POLICE JUNE 2019 JUNE 2019 POLICE 11
showing when the demands that are put on them, outweigh · Do this by acknowledging your child’s strengths or
their capacity to cope. Some might become emotional and the effort they put into doing something difficult, and
withdraw, while others might become disobedient, angry or encourage them to make their own decisions.
resentful. Of course, even the most resilient of warriors have
days where it all gets too much, but low resilience will drive 6. Nurture optimism in your children
certain patterns of behaviour more often.
· Optimism is found to be one of the key characteristics
CAN RESILIENCE BE CHANGED? of resilient people.
· The brain can be rewired to be more optimistic
Yes, the experiences an individual is exposed to, shapes their through the experiences it is exposed to.
intrinsic characteristics to build resilience. · If you have a child who tends to look at the glass
as being half empty, show them the half full option.
HOW DO WE BUILD RESILIENCE IN OUR CHILDREN? This does not mean invalidating how they feel,
acknowledge their view AND introduce them to a
RAISING RESILIENT CHILDREN
Moulding children into healthy, thriving adults, is not about different one.
moving adversity out of their way. If we do that, we will NOT be
doing them any favours, since a little bit of stress is life-giving 7. Teach your children how to reframe
and helps them to develop the skills they need to flourish.
THIS GLOBAL PARENTS’ DAY STRATEGIES TO BUILD RESILIENCE IN YOUR CHILD
· In times of difficulty or disappointment, help them
to focus on what they have, rather than on what they
By Lt Col Crestelle Kleingeld have lost or what they do not have.
1. Build strong relationships with your children · Encourage them to question any ideas about how
G
things should be done.
lobal Parents’ Day is observed on 1 June annually to honour parents worldwide for · Research tells us that it is NOT self-reliance,
their lifelong sacrifice toward nurturing their relationships with their children. determination or inner strength that leads children 8. Model resilience
through difficulty, but the reliable presence of at least
Families remain at the centre of social life in ensuring the What children need, are parents modelling resilient thinking one supportive relationship. · Help your children see that disappointment and
well-being of their members, educating and socialising with and behaviour because children imitate the thinking, habits, · In the context of a loving relationship with a caring adult, sadness are normal human experiences as this
children, as well as caring for the young and the old. Parents and behaviour of the adults around them. children have the opportunity to develop vital coping will pave the way for them to explore what it
of every race, religion, culture and nationality in all parts of skills. (disappointment or sadness) means for them and how
the world are seen as the primary caregivers and teachers of All children are capable of doing extraordinary things. There is no · The presence of a responsive adult can also help they would like to respond to it.
children, preparing them for a happy, fulfilling and productive success gene and there is no happiness gene. The potential reverse the physiological changes that might be
life. for greatness lies in all of them. We cannot change the fact activated by stress. 9. Facing fear – but with support
that they will face challenges along the way, BUT what we can · This will ensure that the developing brain, body and
Parents need to be aware that they sometimes keep their do is give them skills to face challenges thereby building their immune system are protected from the damaging · When children are faced with difficulty, they tend to
children dependent in their quest to be helpful. This happens resilience. effects of stress-related physiological changes. think one could only handle the situation by facing it
when parents short circuit the important lesson that every head on or avoiding it at all cost.
behaviour has a consequence, by NOT allowing their children to Resilience is being able to bounce back after a stressful, 2. Increase your children’s exposure to people who care about them · Show them that there is a third option – to gradually
fail and to try again. Failing and making mistakes, is an traumatic or difficult experience. When children are resilient, move toward it, while feeling supported and with a
important part of growing up as this assists in testing one’s they are braver, more curious, more adaptable, and more able · Children will NOT always notice the people who are in certain amount of control.
limits, building resilience and becoming empowered through to extend their reach into the world. their corner cheering them on, so make them aware
independent learning. of the people in their ‘fan club’. 10. Make time for creativity and play with your children
RESILIENCE AND THE BRAIN · Any contribution you are able to make to build their
ARE YOU A ‘HELICOPTER’ PARENT? connection with the people who love them, will · Problem-solving is a creative process and anything
In times of stress or hardship, the body goes through a number strengthen them. that strengthens their problem-solving skills, will
‘Helicopter’ parents are parents who remove all the obstacles of changes designed to make us faster, stronger, more alert nurture their resilience.
in their children’s way to protect them from failure or and more capable. These are all brilliant, but the changes are 3. Inform your children that it is okay to ask for help
Above all else, let your children know that they are loved unconditionally. This
disappointment as opposed to giving them the space to fail and only meant to be for a short term. When the stress is ongoing,
· Make them aware that being brave and strong will give them a solid foundation to return to when the world starts
figure out on their own, how to do things differently the next these physiological changes stay switched on causing the
means knowing when to ask for help. feeling shaky.
time. prefrontal cortex to temporarily shutdown.
The Social Work Service Family and Relationship Desk would like to
‘Helicopter’ parenting affects the child’s behaviour and brain development. Resilience is related to the capacity to activate the prefrontal thank you for your commitment toward nurturing your relationship
cortex and calm the amygdala (the part of the brain that 4. Increase your children’s capacity to develop coping strategies with your children and building their resilience.
By taking decisions and solving problems for your child, you controls emotions). When this happens, the physiological
reduce their ability to solve problems and make decisions. changes that are activated by stress, start reversing and · Establish routines.
The area of the brain that deals with these components is thereby, expanding the capacity to find a solution, adapt and · Model healthy social behaviour.
the prefrontal cortex, which is only fully developed at the recover from stress or challenges. · Provide opportunities for their own social
age of 25. Developing this part of the brain requires exercise, connections.
which requires that they do things for themselves, failing and HOW DOES RESILIENCE AFFECT BEHAVIOUR? · Play board games and give them a chance to make
Should you require any assistance, our details are as follows:
trying again. Therefore, if your child does not experience the their own decisions.
latter, they will end up not being able to do it in adulthood as Children have different levels of resilience and consequently, Social Work Services 079 880 5966 and 012 393 5472
their prefrontal cortex will be underdeveloped – which might they have unique ways of responding to and recovering from 5. Build feelings of competence and a sense of mastery in your children SAPS’s Family and Relationship Desk members:
diminish their quality of life. stressful experiences. They also have different ways of Lieutenant Colonel Kleingeld at 012 393 5192 and kleingeldc@saps.gov.za
· Nurture the feeling that they can do hard things in Captain MV Nkosi at 012 393 5244 and NkosiViolet@saps.gov.za
them. Captain LK Mahlase at 012 393 5187 and MahlaseL2@saps.gov.za
12 POLICE JUNE 2019 JUNE 2019 POLICE 13
SAPS HUMANITARIAN EFFORTS We then started to contribute funds out of our own pockets
and purchased building material for the project. The
Head Master, Mr Osman Muhammad, and the teacher’s
our cultural and language differences, but we adapted well
as time continued as they began to accept us.”
In the debriefing session, the Section Head for the SAPS’s
CONTRIBUTE TO DARFUR LITERACY association mobilised community members to assist in
building the classrooms and classroom benches. The actual Employee Health and Wellness’s Psychological Services,
Brigadier Petunia Lenono, explained the importance
construction started in February 2019 and the handing
By Capt Kgabo Mashamaite of debriefing members going to and returning from
over was done on 12 May 2019 – just two weeks before
Photographs by WO Theo van Wyk deployment.
our departure back to South Africa. We are grateful to have
made a difference in the lives of ordinary people.”
“The pre-deployment phase mainly involves preparing
According to the ORS Division’s Commander for External members’ mindset for change so they can adjust to
Deployment, Colonel Kuli Mahlangu, the SAPS is mandated extraordinary duties, being away from their loved ones,
by Cabinet to deploy at least 50 deployment-ready members as well as the different environment and cultures. We also
every financial year at a budget of R18 million. Colonel consult with members’ families as they too will go through
Mahlangu further explained that there are two types change because of members’ absence from their everyday
of external deployments, namely, external contingent lives.
deployment (the mission forwards contingent requirements
to Cabinet) and contractual external deployment (the The post-deployment process is aimed at reintegrating
mission advertises vacancies for individuals with specific members into their former normal duties and their families,
qualification/skills). as well as reorientating them in the changes that would
have happened during their 12-month absence,” said
Sharing his experience as an individual police officer for the Brigadier Lenono.
UNAMID, his first external deployment in his 26-year career
with the SAPS, Warrant Officer Richard Govender said The ORS Division’s Commander for Mobilisation Support,
that serving the country at an international peace-keeping Lieutenant Colonel Milton Ndlovu said that members
mission, was an experience of a lifetime and that, given the deployed to foreign missions, have to be fully-functional
opportunity, he would not hesitate to continue where he had police officers, over the age of 25, medically fit, subject
left off. themselves to comprehensive medical screening, comply
with the United Nations’ medical criteria, undergo the United
“I am also glad that, as the commander has said, the team Nations’ generic assessments, undergo two to four-week
raised the flag of the country high and engraved the name assessment training in various disciplines, and pass the
of the SAPS into the hearts of Dafur’s local civilians in the e-based United Nation assessment tests.
Shangil camp through these projects,” said Warrant Officer
Govender.
Detailing his experience, Warrant Officer Govender said:
“We contended with extreme weather conditions with
temperatures soaring to 40˚C and frequent sand storms, but
we adapted. Regarding the locals, we first had to overcome
A group picture of the SAPS members who were part of the United Nations Hybrid Operations mission from 27 May 2018 to 27 May 2019 in Darfur, Sudan.
WO Richard Govender and Sergeant Benjamin van Vuuren next to the completed
classroom structure with the Head Master, Mr Osman Muhammad (dresssed in white)
and the local teachers association representative (dresssed in grey) during their
handing-over ceremony.
M embers of the SAPS, who were part of the
United Nations – African Union Mission in
Darfur (UNAMID) were good ambassadors for
After having assessed the level of illiteracy among the
civilians in the Internally Displaced People camp at Shangil
in the Tobaya area, the SAPS members deployed there,
raised about US$1 000 to build a classroom and help with
the country during their one-year deployment in the procurement of building material to complete the
Sudan. (half-built) administration block at the camp’s school, EL
Hurria Basic School.
This, according to the Section Head for External Deployment
and Mobilisation Support in the Operational Response In her welcoming address, Brigadier Ramodingwane said:
Services (ORS) Division, Brigadier Ria Ramodingwane, “We commend our highly-disciplined members for a job
during the debriefing of members fresh from their well done. Not only on their key responsibility areas, but
international duties at the ORS offices at the Maupa Naga for walking the extra mile and extending their hands and
Building in Pretoria, Gauteng, on 27 May 2019. opening their wallets to make a difference in the lives of
their fellow Africans.”
These members were deployed with instructions to protect
civilians, contribute to security for humanitarian assistance, One of the members involved in raising funds for the
monitor and verify the implementation of various two projects, Sergeant Benjamin van Vuuren, said: “After
agreements, assist in an inclusive political process, as well having observed the lack of basic human rights and the
as contribute to the promotion of human rights and the rule enthusiasm that locals had for learning basic English
of law, among others. The members hoisted the country’s communication skills, we decided to build a classroom that
flag aloft with humanitarian intervention projects apart from would accommodate learners who were willing to learn the
their core mandate. language.
14 POLICE JUNE 2019 JUNE 2019 POLICE 15
EHW EHW
THE FINAL ACT:
Factors leading to suicide?
· do not understand why they attempted suicide in the
Suicide is a complex phenomenon which involves many factors first place
that in some instances, interact with each other and lead to
suicide. · feel angry that they cannot just “get over it”.
SUICIDE AMONG EMPLOYEES OF THE SAPS These include: We can help prevent suicide by doing the following:
By Lt Col (Dr) Coenraad van den Heever · Genetic or biological factors (for example family · Participating in the Employee Health and Wellness
history of suicide and/or depression) (EHW) Psychological Services’ Choose Life Programme,
which raises awareness on suicide among police
· Social factors (for example financial adversity, officials and aims at providing preventative measures
exposure to violence and aggression in the line of that members can use to curb suicide.
T he SAPS is entrusted with the vital task of upholding law and order in the democratic Republic
of South Africa. It is therefore imperative that police officials remain healthy so that they can be
productive and deliver on their Constitutional mandate to protect the country and all its inhabitants.
·
duty, and relationship problems)
Psychological factors (for example poor
interpersonal and/or problem-solving skills)
· Acquiring the help of psychological professionals.
EHW’s Psychological Services’ personnel are
available seven days a week, even after hours, to
assist police officials and their immediate family
· Spiritual factors (for example disconnectedness from members.
Unfortunately, traumatic experiences in the line of duty, God and neglect of one’s spiritual well-being).
Myth buster:
stress and/or depression, sometimes overburden our law · Taking up the responsibility of saving the lives of
enforcement officials which often leads them to commit suicide. 1. False What signs must we look for? your colleagues, family members and friends, you
Police officials are not only at risk of committing suicide, but are • Women attempt suicide three times more often than do not have to be a psychologist to be able to identify a
men. Most suicidal individuals give major warning signs of their
also susceptible to committing murder-suicide. person in distress. Each individual can be a lifesaver
• However, the completed suicide rate is four to five intentions.
by being observant, listening to their intuition, and
Murder-suicide is an act in which an individual kills one or more times higher for males than it is for females.
These include: acting appropriately.
people, usually an intimate partner and/or children, before (or
while) killing themselves. 2. False · Talking about killing or harming themselves · Keeping in mind that a suicidal person’s inability or
• The chances of an individual attempting suicide for a unwillingness to ask for help, does not mean that
Police officials mostly commit suicide or murder-suicide with second time are very high, especially in cases where · Talking or writing about death a lot they do not need it.
service firearms, which is attributed to them having free access there was no intervention after the first attempt.
to them. Hanging and drug overdose are also popular methods · Suffering or having previously suffered from a mental · Realising that suicide prevention starts with
of suicide among police officials. illness/disorder such as depression and/or recognising the warning signs and taking any threats
3. False post-traumatic stress disorder of suicide or murder-suicide seriously.
Males use more violent methods such as firearms to kill • DO NOT be afraid to openly talk about suicide. You
themselves, compared to females who prefer less violent might just save a person’s life. · Having previous suicide attempt(s) How can I support those who have attempted suicide?
options such as drug overdosing.
· Having a family history of suicide
4. False If someone you know is a suicide survivor, you can, irrespective
Which myths exist about suicide? • A person who suffers from depression, usually, does · Abusing alcohol and/or other substances of the type of relationship you have with them:
not have the energy to commit suicide, but they are
Please test your understanding of suicidal behaviour by determining whether you
much more likely to attempt suicide after they have · Losing interest in activities which he or she enjoyed · Check on them often (make time for people and be
believe the below statements by indicating whether they are true or false?
recovered from their mood disorder. previously (for example hobbies and sport) concerned about their well-being)
Myths about suicide:
5. False · Tell them that it is OK to talk about their suicidal
• About 80% of all intended suicides are communicated NOTE: Studies show that a sense of hopelessness, is a strong predictor of
thoughts and feelings
to others, verbally (where the person actually says: “I suicide as people who feel hopeless, predict a bleak future and reckon that
True False want to kill myself”) or non-verbally (where a person they have nothing to look forward to. · Listen without judging or preaching to them
does things that display that he or she is giving up, for · Having dramatic mood swings
1. More men than women attempt suicide.
example giving away their possessions). · Tell them that you want them in your life and how
· Sudden changing behaviour (for example, to
2. A person who has attempted suicide NOTE: non-verbal cues in murder-suicide are much important they are to you
once, is less likely to try it a second time. change from being an outgoing person to becoming
more subtle.
withdrawn or from well-behaved to rebellious)
3. If you ask a person whether they are · Ask them directly whether they are thinking about
thinking about suicide, you will put 6. False · Neglecting physical appearance committing suicide when they start showing warning
suicidal ideas into their minds. • Not all suicidal persons suffer from a mental disorder. signs
Sometimes, individuals who commit suicide are · Displaying changes in eating and/or sleeping
4. A person who has been suffering from
merely looking for a permanent solution to their patterns
depression, who seems to be feeling
better now, is not likely to commit suicide. problem(s).
· Withdrawing and isolating from people, often opting Call the EHW: Psychological Services for immediate assistance
5. Most suicides occur without the person to be alone, whether at home or work at the following numbers:
giving any indication that they are 7. False
thinking about it. • Alcohol use is associated with 25% to 50% of all · Expressing feelings of emptiness, or having a void
suicides. Head Office: 082 779 8616
that no one/nothing can fill
6. Individuals who try to commit suicide, • Alcohol lowers an individual’s inhibitions thereby Gauteng: 082 413 1898
must be mentally ill. helping them to overcome the anxiety involved in Survivors of suicide attempts often − Limpopo: 082 445 9586
committing suicide. North West: 082 855 0657
7. Alcohol does not have much influence on
· feel guilty about what they did Free State: 082 463 4083
the number of suicides.
KwaZulu Natal: 082 567 4181
· fear doing it again, they might be successful next time Western Cape: 082 469 1076
Eastern Cape: 082 779 7197
· feel embarrassed that they failed to take their own Northern Cape: 082 494 9927
lives Mpumalanga: 013 249 1775
16 POLICE JUNE 2019 JUNE 2019 POLICE 17
FLASH NEWS FLASH NEWS
POLICE-COMMUNITY SEARCH TEAM K9’S JACK CATCHING CRIMINALS
RESCUE 2-YEAR-OLD By Capt Sandra Janse van Rensburg
T he police in Erasmia, south-west of Pretoria,
sighed with relief when they reunited a two-
year-old girl with her mother on 27 May 2019.
T he SAPS’s canine, Jack, is always ready for
action assisting his human colleagues to
arrest criminals across the Nelson Mandela Bay
municipal area, Eastern Cape.
Apparently, the young girl was last seen by her aunt while
playing in the street with other children on Saturday, 25 May His latest feat resulted in the apprehension of an alleged
2019. The toddler’s 38-year-old mother reported her child housebreaker in the early hours of 28 May 2019 in Walmer.
missing to the local authorities after she could not find her Members of the SAPS’s K9 unit were patrolling the Heugh
shortly after 11:00. Road and 8th Avenue area in Walmer, when they saw the
shadowy outlines of two people near the 8th Avenue Centre
The police immediately began a search-and-rescue at approximately 02:00. The members became suspicious,
operation in the Mooiplaas Informal Settlement. The child given the time, so they immediately went to investigate.
could not be located during the two-day search and the
operation was called off on Sunday evening, 26 May 2019. The members stopped their vehicle closer to the Centre to
look for the two silhouettes they had noticed, but could not
However, a team comprising members from the SAPS’s find them. However, the members found that the lock on the
K9 Unit’s search-and-rescue, the Erasmia Police Station’s gate had been forced opened. They then released Jack to
Crime Prevention Unit and Detectives Services, the SAPS’s help them find the two people that the members suspected
Air Wing, and Mooiplaas residents resumed the search on to have broken into the Centre.
Monday, 27 May 2019. The team’s efforts bore fruit when
they found the child alive in a nearby bush. They then took While the team searched the Centre, an unknown man
her to a local hospital for observation. jumped from a trench and attempted to flee. The members
warned the suspect to stop but he continued running. After a
“I want to thank the Erasmia police for their commitment brief chase, Jack apprehended the suspect.
and dedication in making sure that my child was found alive.
I have not been able to eat or sleep for the entire weekend The members inspected the property and discovered that
thinking about my child outside and alone in this cold some air pipes were damaged. The 27-year-old suspect
weather. I have been praying to God to keep my daughter was detained on a charge of housebreaking and theft.
alive,” said the child’s mother. The suspect is expected to appear in the Port Elizabeth
and caretakers to ensure that they know the whereabouts Magistrate’s Court soon.
The Station Commander of the Erasmia Police Station, of their children at all times, and I want to encourage the
Lieutenant Colonel Thandi Mokgoetsi, commended all those public to report any missing person at their local police
who participated in the search. “I want to thank everyone station, immediately, as there is no waiting period for
who was involved in this search operation. I urge parents reporting a missing person, no matter the age of such
individual,“ said Lieutenant Colonel Mokgoetsi.You can also read
