PRETORIA - Deputy President Paul Mashatile has expressed concern over allegations of collusion between police officials and criminals.
On Sunday, Mashatile addressed the SAPS commemoration of 27 officers who died in the line of duty in the past year.
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"Let it be clear attacking a police officer is an attack on the state. We are also concerned about reports of collusion inside SAPS ranks," Mashatile said.
The Deputy President also emphasised the need to address institutional inefficiencies and restore public trust.
At the same time, top officials put on a united front amid accusations of political interference and corruption in the criminal justice system.
The Acting Police Minister, Firoz Cachalia says he and the top SAPS brass have reached an understanding on the meaning of their respectful roles.
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"The minister has a role and the commissioner has his own role, the idea that I am here to do nothing or to simple be a ceremonial leader and cut ribbons, that's not what I'm here for," Cachalia explained.
"In any organisation there is ups and downs and at this time, yes it is one of those moments that there are ups and downs but the leadership is together. We are moving forward and we are fighting crime," said National Police Commissioner, Fani Masemola.
The acting police minister says the Madlanga commission of inquiry will be an opportunity to root out bad apples and strengthen law enforcement.
By Silindelo Masikane