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Entry requirements and training to become a Police Official The South African Constitution lays down that the South African Police Service has the responsibility to prevent, combat and investigate crime, to maintain public order, to protect and secure the inhabitants of the Republic and their property, and to bring the perpetrators to justice. It is therefore the vision of the South African Police Service to create a safe and secure environment for all people in South Africa. The greatest asset of the South African Police Service is its human resources. The South African Police are committed to practice the Batho Pele principles “People first”. The South African Police Service is therefore committed to achieve a workforce that will be broadly representative of the South African population, and to utilize transparent recruitment, selection and appointment practices that are based on open competition, ability, objectivity and fairness. The South African Police Service consists of members that are appointed in terms of the South African Police Service Act, 1995 (Act No 68 of 1995). Public Service Act personnel (civilian employees) are appointed in terms of the Public Service Act, 1994 (Act No 103 of 1994) and are mainly responsible for administrative tasks. The South African Police Service offers a wide range of career paths for employees appointed in terms of the South African Police Act. Several units and divisions exist for example the Detective Services (Forensic Science Laboratory, Criminal Record Centre etc.) Crime Prevention, Crime Intelligence, Protection and Security Services, etc. Each specializing in a particular direction to prevent and investigate crimes. Apart from this, specific Employee Assistance Service exists for example, Social Work Services, Spiritual Services, Psychological Services etc. ENTRY REQUIREMENTS AND TRAINING TO BECOME A POLICE OFFICIAL Good communication skills is required, the ability to act decisively and without hesitation; a calm and even-tempered nature; integrity; physical fitness; emotional and mental stability. An applicant who wishes to serve in the South African Police Service as a police official should meet the following criteria: Grade 12 (St 10) is the minimum qualification, be at least 18 and under 30 years of age, be in possession of a valid driver’s licence, have not been found guilty of a criminal offence and meet the minimum requirement set out in the post profile of a trainee (psychological, physical and medical assessment). Successful candidates will be appointed on contract (sign a Memorandum of Agreement) for a minimum of two years. Training will be over a period of two years, during which the trainee will undergo basic training of six months, field training of another six months after which the trainee will be posted to police stations where they will receive practical training in policing for a further 12 months. PROSPECTS: The South African Police Service provides a career opportunity and members are encouraged to better their qualifications and to undergo the relevant compulsory courses so that they will comply with the requirements for promotion. Promotion are post bound and members who qualify will be given the opportunity to apply and complete for advertised posts. Employees are entitled to competitive fringe benefits after the successful completion of their training period, such as a service bonus, home owner’s allowance, contributions to their medical aid, pension fund etc. A death grant of R200 000 is payable to the dependants of a member of the South African Police Service that dies in the line of duty.
Vacant post
are advertised in the media at the beginning of each year (mid-January
to end February) and applicants must keep in contact with the local recruitment
office not to miss the opportunity should posts be advertised. Additional
information can be obtained from the local police stations. The contact
number of the recruitment office in your area will also be available at
the police station. |