President Cyril Ramaphosa on Sunday paid tribute to fallen policemen and policewomen at the Union Buildings, where he revealed that 840 members of the South African Police Service (SAPS) had succumbed to Covid-19.
“We have gathered here on this National Police Commemoration Day to pay tribute to our fallen men and women in blue,” said the president.”
“We salute all members of the SAPS who lost their lives in the line of duty between the 1st of April 2020 and the 31st of March 2021.
“They were colleagues, sons, daughters, husbands, wives, brothers, sisters, loving fathers, caring mothers, neighbours and friends. They will be deeply missed.”
The president said the passing of these heroes and heroines in the line of duty must sharpen the resolve of those who remain in the police service to proudly and bravely continue the noble cause to guarantee the safety and security of all South Africans.
Ramaphosa said occasions “such as this are a stark reminder of the perils our men and women in uniform face as they carry out their duty to serve our country and protect its people”.
He added: “We fully understand the anxiety that accompanies the knowledge that you could leave your home for work, never again to return”.
Ramaphosa said the passing of these heroes and heroines in the line of duty must sharpen the resolve of those who remain in the police service to proudly and bravely continue the noble cause to guarantee the safety and security of all South Africans.
“Today we salute all who work in the SAPS, putting the safety and security of their fellow citizens above their own. Yours is indeed a difficult calling that demands selflessness,” said Ramaphosa.
“Unfortunately, we have some in our society who have absolutely no regard for the patriotic duty discharged by our police officers.”
The president said these are the people who attack “our men and women in uniform” and thus undermine the authority of the democratic state.
“Today we cherish the memories of 34 members who paid the ultimate price for their commitment and determination to serve the South African people,” said Ramaphosa.
“I also wish to take this moment to pay tribute to the 840 men and women in blue, as well as support staff, who succumbed to Covid-19 since its outbreak early last year.”
The president called on the public to partner with the police in the fight against crime.
“The debt of gratitude we owe our fallen men and women in blue is eternal. It can only be repaid by the full attainment of the highest ideals for which they laid down their lives,” said Ramaphosa.