Cele issues stern warning to police officers abusing SAPS badge of honour

JOHANNESBURG - Outgoing Police Minister Bheki Cele has issued a stern warning to officers abusing and disrespecting the badge.

Addressing dozens of officers at a medal parade at the South African Police Service (SAPS) Academy in Pretoria on Tuesday, Cele called on members to respect their uniform.

In what could likely be his final public briefing, Cele called on police officers to respect their uniform during the event.

"I must say, I’m upset, by the young police officers who disrespect the uniform and badge by going to TikTok to dance with their uniform and do things they are not supposed to do in uniform."

He urged police officers to hold their colleagues accountable.

"I’m calling on you and instructing you to be tough on those people who think that this uniform is equal to going to a tavern and going to dance with it."

Cele was not included on the African National Congress' parliamentary list and will be replaced when President Cyril Ramaphosa elects his new Cabinet later this week.

Cele said whoever takes over as his successor must remember to put South Africans first.

He served as the Minister of Police for the past six years, previously holding the National Police Commissioner position until he was removed for allegations of misconduct more than a decade ago.

Cele gave his departing words: "They must remember that the walk is still long. It’s not about us, it’s not about position, it’s about putting in the most effort by putting the shoulder on the wheel for the betterment of the lives of the people of South Africa. The only words I can say is to say thank you South Africa."