THE police service hosted its annual national police prayer day yesterday at the SAPS Academy in Tshwane.
Deputy national police commissioner: human resource management, Lieutenant-General Bonang Mgwenya said: “We can’t afford to lose one of us. We need to regard this prayer with respect. We execute our policing duties under very dangerous circumstances and need prayer and interaction with each other.
“September is dedicated to the safety and security of our men and women in blue. We are still acknowledging the month because this event is relevant to the cause. We conclude all activities during September with a national intercessory visual prayer service for the safety of all our officers and South Africa.”
Mgwenya also said dedicated members were aware of the risks, no matter the sacrifices where they could die at the hands of criminals who were part of the community they served. She said police were killed while responding to complaints and by suspects resisting arrest. They were also lured to their death by false complaints, while others died intervening in domestic violence.
She said cops died for their firearms, even while they were off duty. “Criminals commit serious crimes using stolen firearms.”
The commissioner said the killings also affected the members who stay behind. She said during 2019-2020, 77 members were murdered on and off duty. Since April this year, 13 officers were murdered on duty and 16 off duty. “We must encourage daily prayers at our workplaces. We must pray for the safety of all our officers all the time.”
She also encouraged members to be on high alert throughout the year.“We can’t afford to lose any more police. Whenever you are confronted by danger, you must never hesitate to defend yourself.”
While Mgwenya condemned killings and attacks, 218 members have also been lost due to Covid-19. She said the purpose of lighting candles was for God’s light of protection on members risking their lives in serving and protecting South Africans.
Bishop Mosa Sono of Grace Bible Church said: “Hard times may come but God is there with us. Police work has always been challenging. God will touch your lives in a very special way,” he said.
Police officials also danced to the Jerusalema song.
