Mpumalanga Police Commissioner Semakaleng Manamela happily welcomed over 700 new police officers this week. They finished their training in November. Now they will be sent out to police stations across Mpumalanga province to help fight crime.
More than 500 of the new officers are men, while over 200 are women. During the holidays they will work in busy public areas like malls. Some will go to places where crime happens a lot. The new officers are excited to start work. One said, “Criminals should watch out because we are coming for them!”
A police union leader, Jacob Hlongwane, said police should be allowed to use their guns to defend themselves. He said killing a police officer should be seen as treason.
Commissioner Manamela said the new officers come at a good time. Criminals often commit more crimes over the holidays. The new police will work with experienced officers and focus on places like Masoyi, Calcutta, Ermelo and Moloto Road.
Manamela warned the new officers not to associate with criminals.
