31-year-old makes history by becoming the first woman to join the parachute wings of the Special Task Force

A 31-year-old Constable is the first woman to complete the South African Police Service (SAPS) Special Task Force Selection Training Programme (STF) since it was established in 1976.

According to the SAPS the woman has been serving in the police force for 11 years and she became the only officer to successfully complete the STF without  any amendments to the training to try and accommodate women.

The 31-year-old, whose identity cannot be revealed for security reasons, is now the only female police officer currently serving as an operational member. She is from the Western Cape and she said her achievement will pave the way for other women in the force.

“If you really want something you must do everything to obtain it. I wanted to be part of the best, either the best or nothing. If I can do it, other women can and will be able to do it”, she said.

The National Commissioner of the SAPS, General Fannie Masemola bestowed the 11 members with STF parachute wings in SAPS academy in Tshwane last week.

Masemola said from the 93 applicants only 11 successfully completed the intensive training.

“Out of 906 applications to join this elite unit, 589 applicants qualified for provisional selection. Ultimately, only 93 applicants reported for selection of which only 11 successfully completed the STF Basic Training programme. 

“Suffice to say, the 11 successful candidates, together with currently serving 10 STF members, have done the organisation proud. All members of the parade have shown dedication and commitment to their profession. 

“The STF selection criteria is very stringent and those who are selected, must prove their mettle throughout their intensive and rigorous training”, said Masemola.

The Special Task Force Parachute Wings are awarded to those members who have undergone and completed the Special Task Force Selection Training Programme. 

The STF Parachute wings are worn on the left chest and signifies that the recipient has been trained to a high level of skill in weapon proficiency, advanced paramilitary rural tactics, advanced tactical policing for high risk incidents, hostage release tactics in a variety of high risk incidents as well as the ability to deploy operationally by parachute into rural environments.