The Swellendam and Theewaterskloof municipal areas are now in a stronger position to combat crime after 37 peace officers (POs) – 19 in Swellendam and 18 in Theewaterskloof – graduated from the PO programme.
The Western Cape Department of Police Oversight and Community Safety said this brought the total POs deployed to the Overberg in the past year to 54. These include 16 in the Overstrand who graduated earlier this year.
“The first quarter of 2024 will see a further 20 POs being trained in the Cape Agulhas municipal area, expanding our efforts to create safer communities,” said the department in a statement.
This PO programme forms part of the Western Cape Safety Plan (WCSP), which prioritises the strengthening of Municipal Law Enforcement capacity across the province, particularly to enhance urban/rural safety and combat crime within communities. More than a combined R2,6 million is being invested in these officers.
The officers were trained between 26 October and 8 December in Swellendam and Caledon, with venues provided by the respective municipalities. The training provided individuals with the capacity to demonstrate and understand the role and function of a Peace Officer and Traffic Warden. The following criteria were covered:
• Law Enforcement and the Constitution;
• The Constitution of South Africa 108 of 1995;
• Principles of criminal law and rules of interpretation of law;
• Outline of the law of criminal procedure;
• Legislation and the national road traffic act pertaining to traffic wardens;
• Schedule 1 and 3 offences;
• Law of Evidence and Criminal courts;
• Practical: 56 & 341 administrative notices and
• Adherence to professional conduct and organisational ethics.
Along with the Safety and Security Sector Education and Training Authority (Sasseta) Certificate, graduates also received a 12-month Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) contract/internship within the respective municipality.
Western Cape Minister of Police Oversight and Community Safety Reagan Allen said: “I wish these officers well in their new role. Along with their families, they can be proud of their achievements. I call on the communities of Swellendam and Theewaterskloof to support the efforts of our POs. This will go a long way in assisting safety efforts in the respective areas, district and province. Our ultimate aim is to ensure the Western Cape becomes the safer province where our residents can flourish.”