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Cele has revealed that 40 officers and reservists have lost their lives in the line of duty.
Police Minister Bheki Cele at a crime summit in Paarl on July 14, 2019. Image: @ SAPoliceService / Twitter
JOHANNESBURG (AP) – Police Minister Bheki Cele said on Sunday that any attack by any officer was an assault on the state and should be considered treason.
Cele has revealed that 40 officers and reservists have lost their lives in the line of duty.
The South African Police Service pays tribute to the women and men in blue who have sacrificed their lives in the performance of their duties.
The ceremony took place at the SAPS Memorial Site at Union Buildings in Pretoria on Sunday morning.
The families of the fallen officers along with Vice President David Mabuza will lay wreaths in honor of the officers.
Cele said that while the country mourns his passing, South Africans should equally celebrate the lives of the officers.
“His work is like no other. From the moment they donned their uniform, they responded to a call to serve and protect. Even if it meant putting their lives in danger. The 40 officers did not return home and that is why they deserve our respect and honor ”.
The names of the slain officials will then be engraved on the wall of the national monument to signify the nation’s gratitude for their bravery and sacrifice.
Vice President David Mabuza said he was concerned that police officers would be attacked and, in some cases, killed by criminals.
Mabuza described the dedication of the women and men in blue as a vital part of the criminal justice system.
“It continues to be of great concern that police officers are killed by suspects during arrests, in stop-and-search operations and in vehicle accidents. It is very worrying that police officers lose their lives due to their firearms ”.
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