Mayor welcomes 1 500 Joburg metro cop trainees
Joburg Mayor Herman Mashaba welcomed 1 500 Joburg metro cop trainees at the JMPD Academy in Joburg.
Mashaba urged the new recruits not to show mercy on criminals.
“JMPD recruits, you stand here today because the city needs you, and you stand here because the city chose you,” the mayor said. Mashaba said even though the recruits only completed a three-month basic training programme, they would still, over the next three years, continue with training. “You will be expected to act with competency. While your primary concern at the moment is traffic violations, your training over the next three years will ensure you are effective crime prevention officers.”
He said 38 600 applications were received, of which 1 500 were chosen, who were the cream of the crop.
“If you see criminal activities or behaviour, it’s your duty to report it, to denounce it, and to uphold the ethics of community policing. Joburg residents want safer streets.
Out of the 1 500, six were selected and awarded their certificates of appointment by Mashaba.
Justin Langfred (26) received a certificate. He said he came all the way from Prieska, Northern Cape, to fulfil his dream of being an officer.
“I am so ready for all the challenges that come with being an officer.” As they attentively listen to the Member of the Mayoral Committee for Public Safety (MMC), Councillor Michael Sun, the reality of the work and requirements of what lies ahead sinks in. MMC Sun tells recruits, “As you stand here in the heat, think of your families, your situation and always remember this day as the first day in your life to becoming a police officer. No matter who leads this City, you have a huge responsibility to serve with pride and honesty.”
At the end of the speeches there was a ceremonial handing over appointment letters followed by the symbolic handing over of the JMPD flag that signifies its ethos.
