Mashatile Warns Attacks on Police Will Face Full Might of Law at SAPS Commemoration Day
Mashatile warns attacks on police will face full might of law at SAPS Commemoration Day, as the Deputy President declares that targeting officers is an assault on the state itself and vows harsher punishments, while emphasising self-defence measures during the annual event at the Union Buildings in Pretoria on Sunday, 7 September 2025, where 27 fallen heroes from the 2024/25 financial year were honoured through emotional wreath-laying and tributes, underscoring government’s commitment to officer safety amid rising threats from criminals.
Solemn Ceremony Pays Tribute to Fallen Officers
A poignant atmosphere enveloped the Union Buildings in Pretoria on Sunday, 7 September 2025, as South Africa paused to remember the brave police officers who made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty. The annual South African Police Service (SAPS) Commemoration Day honoured the 27 members who lost their lives between 1 April 2024 and 31 March 2025, a period marked by relentless challenges for law enforcement. Deputy President Paul Mashatile, leading the proceedings, delivered a powerful message of solidarity and resolve, warning that attacks on police would be met with the harshest consequences under the law.
The event began with an emotional wreath-laying ceremony at the SAPS Memorial Site, where granite slabs bear the names of thousands of fallen officers. Mashatile, joined by bereaved families, Acting Minister of Police Professor Firoz Cachalia, and National Commissioner General Fannie Masemola, laid wreaths in tribute. A final salute echoed across the lawns, and the names of the 27 heroes were engraved on the memorial wall, ensuring their legacy endures. Families shared heartfelt stories, with one relative of Constable Mojalefa Borole speaking of the pain of loss but pride in service.
Mashatile’s address was unflinching, condemning the criminal syndicates preying on officers. “Let it be clear: attacking a police officer is an attack on the State itself, and it will be met with the full might of the law. We want to make sure that even touching a police officer carries the harshest punishment permitted by our laws, and where possible, tighten these laws,” he declared. He referenced the recent killing of Sergeant Lawrence Mtshweni in Schoemansdal, Mpumalanga, on 8 August 2025, by armed robbers, as a stark example of the dangers faced daily. “We should not allow these ruthless acts by criminals to continue. Criminals should never be free to roam our streets whenever they choose,” Mashatile added.
Emphasis on Self-Defence and Resource Support
In a direct message to serving officers, Mashatile urged vigilance and proactive self-protection. “As police officers, you must not die with your service firearms in your holsters. You have a duty to protect your lives; this means you must use force that is proportional to the threat that you face. You must not surrender to any form of criminality,” he said, echoing sentiments from previous commemorations amid rising attacks. This call comes as police face organised crime syndicates involved in drug trafficking, gangs, and other threats that have claimed 66 lives over the past two years.
The Deputy President assured officers of government’s unwavering support. “We stand firmly with the men and women of the SAPS. We are intensifying efforts to ensure your safety and to equip you adequately for the fight against crime. We are resourcing specialised units, investing in advanced technology, strengthening intelligence, and tightening these laws to deal decisively with those who target police officers,” Mashatile stated. He acknowledged that criminality remains a grave concern, particularly organised crime, and committed to bolstering measures to protect those on the front lines.
Acting Minister Cachalia paid a moving tribute, noting that the loss of an officer is a profound blow to the nation. “These men and women stood on the frontlines of our democracy, protecting our people and upholding the rule of law in the most difficult and dangerous circumstances. We bow our heads with gratitude and respect,” he said. Cachalia emphasised that the engraved names are “not merely as names carved in stone, but as powerful reminders of courage, sacrifice and service to the nation.” He assured families that their loved ones’ memory will endure, inspiring future generations.
Emotional Tributes and Calls for Vigilance
The ceremony was deeply emotional, with families like that of Constable Mojalefa Borole sharing their grief. Puseletso Sera, Borole’s young brother, spoke at the event, reflecting on the personal toll of such losses. Gospel singer Mqondisi Ntshangase performed, adding a spiritual dimension to the remembrance. Police Commissioner General Fannie Masemola led a wreath-laying, honouring the sacrifices made.
The commemoration highlighted the human cost of policing, with 39 officers remembered in the previous year’s event for 2023/2024. This year’s focus on 27 fallen members underscores ongoing risks, from ambushes to confrontations with armed robbers. Police union Popcru urged management to recruit more members, stressing that honouring the fallen must include protecting the living through better resourcing and training.
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