Mchunu: Govt can no longer allow corrupt law enforcement officials to serve

JOHANNESBURG - Newly appointed Police Minister Senzo Mchunu said that the government could no longer allow corrupt law enforcement officials to serve in the police service.

Mchunu was speaking at a media briefing in Pretoria on Monday, where he outlined plans to combat crime and corruption, as he hits the ground running in his new role.

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 According to a study by the South African Human Science Research Council (HSRC), only 27% of people have trust in the men in blue.

Minister Mchunu believes corrupt police officers have contributed to the low public trust in law enforcement authorities. 

"We want to change the negative perceptions of our police officers. People must respect police officers, have confidence in them and feel safe in their midst."

Mchunu has emphasised the need for a unified effort to tackle corruption within the police service.

"Central to our strategy is the urgent need to professionalise the SAPS and instill positive ethical values, patriotism and the understanding that the primary duty of a police officer is to always serve and protect the public."

According to Stats SA, police and traffic officials were the most common culprits when it comes to soliciting bribes from the public.