‘Either you’re with people or the criminals’ – Cele blasts ‘anti-police agenda’
Police Minister Bheki Cele lambasted the media and members of the public, who he said have perpetuated the narrative that the police were failing dismally at combatting crime.
Cele gave an update on the successes achieved by the South African Police Service (SAPS) in response to serious and violent crimes.
His remarks came on the back of the recently foiled cash-in-transit heist in Hoedspruit, Limpopo, where joint efforts between police and the Hoedspruit Farmers Watch resulted in the shooting deaths of four suspects and three arrests.
Cele said, despite the public comments crediting members of the Hoedspruit Farmers Watch for the successful takedown, it was the good working relationship between the police and that community forum that also resulted in the arrest of one of the country’s most wanted criminals.
“We’d like to take this opportunity to appreciate the working relationship with Hoedspruit farm watchers who worked closely with the SAPS in taking down this syndicate.
“Among those arrested was a most wanted suspect, a Mozambican national linked to a murder of a police officer, a spate of hijackings, house and business robberies, and fraud cases.”
The suspect was expected to appear in court on Tuesday.
Cele addresses what he calls “anti-police agenda” following the Hoedspruit CIT incident where a cash heist was foiled by police &members of the Hoedspruit Farm Watchers. 4 suspects were killed #SapsUpdate #SeriousCrimes
— Jacaranda News (@JacaNews) September 26, 2023
RECAP: https://t.co/0BEAZI3NIu pic.twitter.com/b6hMG0T4z0
READ: Four CIT suspects killed in shootout with police in Hoedspruit
Meanwhile, speaking off script, Cele addressed what he called an “anti-police” agenda on various platforms, including on social media and at the SABC.
“One radio DJ galivanted on these matters attacking police on this matter attacking police, and you’ll know in a short space of time why she was doing that, but also supported by the academia in dismantling and ridiculing the work of the police.
“We’re not saying that police are perfect. We’re not saying that there aren’t any problems, as we mentioned that some of our own have been arrested.”
The minister said anyone perceived to be on “the side of criminals” would be treated as criminals themselves.
“Either you’re with the people, or you’re with the criminals. So, we’re watching and warning that those who join the criminals will be regarded as criminals, and as such – we’ll act accordingly,” he warned.
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