National Police Day: PSA calls for better support for police
The Public Servants Association has highlighted the challenges facing police officers on National Police Day.
Image: Ayanda Ndamane/ Independent Newspapers
THE Public Servants Association (PSA), which represents more than 245 000 public-sector employees, including members of the South African Police Service (SAPS), will mark National Police Day by highlighting the human impact of policing.
Commemorated under the theme “Beyond the Uniform: The Human Side of Policing,” the focus is on the pressures faced by police officials, including exposure to trauma, high-risk working environments, public scrutiny, and limited resources. The PSA said these factors are often overlooked, despite their effect on officials tasked with maintaining public safety.
The South African government has approved January 27 as National Police Day. The day marks the anniversary of the establishment of the South African Police Service (SAPS) in January 1995. It serves as a day for SAPS management to reflect on progress made in preventing, combating, and investigating crime, and to appreciate serving members.
A SAPS Career Expo will take place at the Dr Petrus Rantlai Molemela Stadium, Bloemfontein as part of the commemorative events.
Meanwhile, the PSA reiterated its concerns about ongoing challenges within the SAPS, citing chronic understaffing, inadequate equipment, increasing workloads, and limited access to psychosocial support services. According to the PSA, these issues continue to affect morale and operational performance and require sustained intervention by SAPS management and government.
As a recognised union in the SAPS, the PSA said it would continue to advocate for improved working conditions, safer operational environments, and the protection of labour rights. The union added that it remains committed to raising concerns about unsafe practices and ensuring police employees are represented in decision-making processes.
The PSA also acknowledged the contribution of police officials on National Police Day, noting their commitment and professionalism. The union said recognising the human dimension of policing is key to improving service delivery and public confidence in law enforcement.