‘Attacking a police officer is an attack on the State itself’

A stark warning echoed across the Union Buildings’ lawns today as the country honoured police officers who lost their lives in the line of duty: those who target South Africa’s police will face the full might of the law.

The warning was issued by Deputy President Paul Mashatile during the annual South African Police Service (SAPS) Commemoration Day.

The day honours the lives of the 27 police officers who lost their lives in the line of duty during the 2024/25 financial year.

“Let it be clear: attacking a police officer is an attack on the State itself, and it will be met with the full might of the law. We want to make sure that even touching a police officer carries the harshest punishment permitted by our laws, and where possible, tighten these laws,” Deputy President Mashatile said.

He assured police officers across the country that government “stands firmly with the men and women of the SAPS”.

“We are intensifying efforts to ensure your safety and to equip you adequately for the fight against crime. We are resourcing specialised units, investing in advanced technology, strengthening intelligence, and tightening laws to deal decisively with those who target police officers.

“We should not allow these ruthless acts by criminals to continue. Criminals should never be free to roam our streets whenever they choose. Most importantly, as our community’s first line of defence, you must always remain vigilant and never let your guard down,” Deputy President Mashatile said.

Tackling criminality

The Deputy President acknowledged that criminality – particularly organised crime – remains a concern.

“Drug trafficking syndicates, gangs and other forms of organised crime represent an urgent and growing challenge in South Africa. The killing of Sergeant Lawrence Mtshweni, who was shot and killed by more than seven armed robbers at a store in Schoemansdal, Mpumalanga, on Friday, 08 August 2025, is but one example of the many senseless killings of our police officers.

“Let me reiterate, as police officers, you must not die with your service firearms in your holsters. You have a duty to protect your lives; this means you must use force that is proportional to the threat that you face. You must not surrender to any form of criminality,” Deputy President Mashatile said.

Solemn occasion

During the ceremony, the Deputy President together with bereaved families, Acting Minister of Police Professor Firoz Cachalia, and National Commissioner of the SAPS General Fannie Masemola laid wreaths at the SAPS Memorial Site at the Union Buildings in Pretoria.

The fallen officers were also honoured with a final salute and their names will be engraved on the SAPS memorial wall.

“The 27 officers we commemorate today now take their rightful place on the Roll of Honour. Their families must know that, even in grief, there is pride. Their names will echo through generations as symbols of sacrifice and devotion to duty. They may be gone, but their legacy endures in the safety of our communities and in the freedom of our democracy.

“Once again, we extend our heartfelt sympathies to the families and loved ones of our brave officers who have made the ultimate sacrifice. May the spirits of our brave heroes and heroines find everlasting tranquillity. Let their bravery motivate us to create a South Africa that promotes safety, justice, and freedom,” Deputy President Mashatile said.

Cachalia added that the names will “now be forever engraved on the honour roll…not merely as names carved in stone, but as powerful reminders of courage, sacrifice and service to the nation”.

“The loss of a police officer is not only a loss to their family, their colleagues, or their community – it is a profound loss to the entire nation and should be considered as a crime against the state. These men and women stood on the frontlines of our democracy, protecting our people and upholding the rule of law, in the most difficult and dangerous circumstances.

“We bow our heads with gratitude and respect. To the families who are here with us – we know that no words can truly ease the pain of your loss. But please know this: the memory of your loved ones will never fade. Their dedication and ultimate sacrifices will not be forgotten. They live on – not only in your hearts, but in the collective conscience of a grateful nation.

“As we read their names and lay wreaths in their honour, let us renew our commitment to the ideals for which they stood. May the memory of our fallen heroes forever inspire us. May their souls continue to rest in eternal peace,” Cachalia said. – SAnews.gov.za