The Police and Prisons Civil Rights Union (POPCRU) said it is deeply alarmed and saddened by the increasing number of killings and suicides among law enforcement officers.
The union’s comments come after the recent tragic incident, whereby a police officer allegedly shot dead his crime prevention warden girlfriend Chesnay Keppler in Eldorado Park on Thursday.
The police officer then fled the scene, shot himself, but it currently in hospital under police guard.
POPCRU said this tragic and concerning trend highlights the severe mental health challenges faced by the officers.
“Law enforcement officers are exposed to high levels of stress, trauma, and dangerous working conditions daily.
The emotional toll of these pressures, coupled with the stigma surrounding mental health issues, has led to devastating consequences.
It is unacceptable that the very individuals tasked with ensuring the safety and well-being of others often find themselves struggling in silence, unable to access the help and support they need,” said the union spokesperson, Richard Mamabolo.
According to the police statistics, between July and September, 17 police officers were tragically killed in the line of duty, while several others committed suicide in what is believed to be work related stress.
To prevent further tragedies, the union has implored on government to immediately implemented several measures.
“We call for accessible, confidential, and comprehensive psychological support programs tailored specifically to the unique challenges faced by officers.
This includes access to counselling, therapy, and mental health resources that cater to the emotional and psychological needs of officers,” explained Mamabolo.
In addition, he called for the stigma surrounding mental health in law enforcement to be actively dismantled.
“Officers should feel safe and supported when seeking help, without fear of judgment or career repercussions.
It is vital to create a culture that encourages officers to reach out for assistance without fear of discrimination,” remarked Mamabolo.
The union also called for the implementation of workplace wellness programs that provide regular mental health check-ins, stress management workshops, and coping mechanisms for dealing with trauma.
It stressed that these programs must be mandatory and integrated into the daily functioning of law enforcement agencies.
Moreover, Mamabolo called for stronger support networks for the officers.
“It is essential that a strong network of peer support be established, where officers can confide in each other, share their struggles, and provide emotional support.
The creation of dedicated support groups within law enforcement agencies will ensure that no officer feels alone in their battle,” explained Mamabolo.
Other preventative measures proposed by the union include training on mental health awareness, improved work conditions and supportive leadership, and comprehensive post-traumatic stress support.
