The South African Police Service (SAPS) has reassured applicants that its eRecruitment portal remains operational despite delays and slower response times caused by a surge in applications for its Police Trainee Recruitment Programme.
In a statement, SAPS attributed the delays to high traffic volumes on the online recruitment platform. The service said its Technology Management Services division, working alongside its technology partners, was working around the clock to manage demand and maintain the system’s functionality.
“The SAPS Technology Management Services division, together with its technology partners, is working around the clock to manage the increased demand and ensure the continued functioning of the system,” the statement read.
Applicants who have successfully submitted their applications have been assured that their submissions remain valid and that no further action is required.
SAPS has advised prospective candidates against repeatedly attempting to register. Applicants have also been encouraged to submit their applications outside peak hours, where possible, to minimise delays.
According to the latest figures released by the police service, more than 300,000 profiles had been registered on the online recruitment platform as part of its drive to recruit 5,500 police trainees.
As of Saturday, 24 October 2026, more than 232,000 applicants had completed profile verification, while over 190,000 had started their applications. A total of 172,721 applications had been completed and submitted for the available posts.
Female applicants accounted for more than 95,000 submitted applications, while male applicants had submitted over 76,000, according to SAPS.
Gauteng, KwaZulu-Natal and the Eastern Cape recorded the highest numbers of applications.
The police service has urged prospective candidates to rely exclusively on its official communication channels for accurate and reliable information about the recruitment process.
The deadline for applications is 13 November 2026. Interested candidates are encouraged to submit their applications before the closing date.
