Key Takeaways
- The Station Commander of uThongathi police station refused a bribe from criminal suspects and added another charge to their charge sheet instead.
- The Provincial Commissioner, Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, praised the Station Commander for his integrity and commitment to the police service.
- The incident involved the Acting Commander, Colonel Nicholas Mfeka, who refused a bribe from criminals allegedly found in possession of an illegal firearm.
- The Provincial Commissioner emphasized the importance of having upright police officers who protect lives and enforce the law.
- The National Police Commissioner, Fanie Masemola, urged police officers to give their all during the festive season.
Introduction to the Incident
The KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Commissioner, Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, recently addressed a police parade in Durban, where he commended the Station Commander of uThongathi police station for refusing to be corrupted by criminal suspects. The incident involved the Acting Commander, Colonel Nicholas Mfeka, who was offered a bribe by suspects allegedly found in possession of an illegal firearm. However, instead of accepting the bribe, Colonel Mfeka added another charge to the suspect’s charge sheet and proceeded with the arrest. This act of integrity and commitment to the police service was praised by Commissioner Mkhwanazi, who noted that it is police officers like Colonel Mfeka who uphold the values of the police service.
The Provincial Commissioner’s Remarks
Commissioner Mkhwanazi’s remarks were made during a police parade in Durban, where he addressed the officers and commended Colonel Mfeka for his actions. The Provincial Commissioner stated that while some police officers have tarnished the image of the police service, there are many members who remain committed to upholding the law and protecting lives. He emphasized that it is police officers like Colonel Mfeka who are the backbone of the organization and that their actions should be encouraged and recognized. Commissioner Mkhwanazi also noted that the attempt by the suspects to bribe Colonel Mfeka proved futile, and that the Station Commander’s actions demonstrate the kind of integrity and commitment that is expected of police officers.
The Importance of Upright Police Officers
The Provincial Commissioner’s remarks highlight the importance of having upright police officers who are committed to the police service and the community they serve. Commissioner Mkhwanazi emphasized that police officers like Colonel Mfeka are the kind of officers that the country deserves, and that their actions should be emulated by other officers. He also noted that the Station Commander’s actions set an example for other officers in the station, demonstrating the importance of being upright, protecting lives, and enforcing the law. The Provincial Commissioner’s comments suggest that the police service is committed to rooting out corruption and promoting a culture of integrity and accountability within the organization.
The National Police Commissioner’s Remarks
The National Police Commissioner, Fanie Masemola, was also in attendance at the police parade and urged police officers to give their all during the festive season. Commissioner Masemola’s remarks emphasized the importance of police officers being vigilant and committed to their duties, particularly during the festive season when crime rates tend to increase. The National Police Commissioner’s comments demonstrate the police service’s commitment to ensuring the safety and security of communities during the festive season. The presence of both the Provincial and National Police Commissioners at the parade highlights the importance of the incident and the need for police officers to uphold the values of the police service.
Conclusion
The incident involving the Station Commander of uThongathi police station refusing a bribe from criminal suspects is a testament to the integrity and commitment of some police officers. The Provincial Commissioner’s praise for the Station Commander’s actions demonstrates the police service’s commitment to promoting a culture of integrity and accountability within the organization. The incident also highlights the importance of having upright police officers who protect lives and enforce the law, and serves as an example for other officers to emulate. As the festive season approaches, the police service is urging officers to give their all and remain vigilant in their duties, ensuring the safety and security of communities.