Media Statement Issued By the National Media Centre, South African Police Service - Corporate Communication, Pretoria, February 9 2011

The South Africa Police Service has noted with shock recent media reports suggesting that the National Police Commissioner, General Bheki Cele, and his senior management approve of the harsh treatment that has been meted out to police trainees at certain SAPS training academies around the country.

What these reports fail to mention is that, for instance, when General Cele learned of the unfortunate case of a trainee who suffered severe sunburn during training at the Ulundi Training Academy, he not only ordered an investigation into the matter, he also ordered the immediate removal of the trainer involved from the academy as well as the immediate procurement of suitable apparel for trainees to ensure that they are protected from the harsh natural environment they have to train in, particularly the African sun and the cold winter rains experienced in some parts of the country.

General Cele also called on management of the SAPS to ensure that trainees are fed a high-quality diet consisting of healthy foods such as fruit, vegetables and white meat.

All of this is consistent with General Cele's widely-hailed regard for the welfare and well-being of his charges.

"We must always ensure that our members are well-treated in line with our goal is to make this organisation an employer of first choice in this country", said Cele in a closed meeting with management of the Ulundi Training Academy.

The recruit who suffered severe sunburn at Ulundi has been transferred to the Chatsworth Training Academy and has resumed training after making a full recovery.

Statement issued by Nonkululeko Mbatha, Head: Corporate Communication, National Media Centre, South African Police Service, February 9 2011

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