‘Attacking police is attacking the State’: Ramaphosa honours 12 fallen officers
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa honored 12 police officers killed in the line of duty during a national commemoration. He emphasized that attacks on police are attacks on the state and called for stronger community cooperation to protect law enforcement.
Why it matters
The speech highlights ongoing concerns regarding public safety and the rule of law in South Africa, reflecting broader tensions between the state and criminal elements.
Ask AI 3 min President Cyril Ramaphosa honours 12 fallen SAPS members who died in the line of duty, paying tribute to their service and calling for stronger protection of police officers.
President Cyril Ramaphosa has warned that criminals who target police officers are attacking the integrity of the State, the rule of law and the constitutional order, as South Africa honoured 12 fallen SAPS members in Pretoria on Sunday.
Speaking at the annual SAPS National Commemoration Day at the Union Buildings, Ramaphosa said the officers who died in the line of duty during the 2025/26 financial year should not be remembered as statistics.
“When criminals target a police officer, they are attacking the integrity of the State, the rule of law and the constitutional order,” Ramaphosa said.
“They are not just attacking an individual. They are attacking the people of South Africa.”
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