Police union worried about mental health of officers in wake of GBV cases
The South African Police Union (Sapu) said it was concerned about the mental health of police officers in the wake of numerous reports of officers involved in gender-based violence.
Recently, police constable Lindokuhle Sikhakhane was sentenced to 30 years in prison for killing his friend Sandile Nene as well as his pregnant fiancé Samkelisiwe Mtshali.
Former police officer Lucky Mudau is standing trial for allegedly shooting his girlfriend Lebo Monene in the parking lot of Tembisa Hospital almost a year ago.
These two incidents were among a number of violent incidents involving police officers over the past year.
Sapu national spokesperson Lesiba Thobagale called for the implementation of measures to support police officers, including increased access to mental health services.
“The South African Police Service needs to make sure that employee health and wellness is working and functioning properly because currently, it has collapsed,” said Thobakgale.
“It does not have the necessary professionals who are psychiatrists and phycologists, inclusive of social workers who are supposed to assist our members when they have attended crime scenes, even when they have their own personal challenges at home.”
Thobakgale said murdering a partner was inexcusable, regardless of the personal problems someone was facing.
“We condemn any form of violence. There is no one who can use the excuse to kill a partner or to kill somebody else…it is unjustifiable.”
-EWN
In other news – Tango Ncetezo (Paulina) kisses goodbye to The River
Mzansi’s favourite shebeen queen Paulina has bowed out. The character played by Tango Ncetezo on 1Magic’s The River officially bid goodbye to the small screens on the season finale on Friday, 3 February.
Tango took to social media to thank the show and the fans of the show. The show will also be coming to an end after its upcoming sixth season, which kicks off on Monday 6 February. “What a ride! To the Kingdom of Refilwe, you are the epitome of talent, and thank you for holding me down each day, with grace and friendship. For teaching me and guiding me. Learn More
