Police officers in KwaZulu-Natal are expressing discontent over unpaid overtime wages for their hard work during the recent elections. Despite working long hours, many officers have not yet been compensated as promised. The Police and Prisons Civil Rights Union (POPCRU) has criticized police management for not fulfilling their commitment to pay officers for the extra hours worked.
Nthabeleng Molefe, the provincial secretary of POPCRU, voiced the union’s frustration and anger. “We are shocked and outraged by SAPS’ failure to remunerate our members with the overtime pay they are entitled to. Our officers dedicated themselves to ensuring the smooth running of the elections, working tirelessly beyond their regular duties. It is unjust that they have not been fairly compensated for their hard work,” she stated.
Molefe highlighted the significant discrepancy between the hours worked and the payment received. “Our members received a paltry sum for just 12 hours of work, despite many putting in 24-hour shifts and some even working 36 hours straight. This is a slap in the face, considering the critical role they played in maintaining law and order during the elections,” she added.
The union has vowed to take action to ensure that their members receive the compensation they are owed. “We will not rest until our members are paid what they are due. We demand fair compensation for their hard work and dedication,” Molefe emphasized.
According to reports, the South African Police Service (SAPS) has acknowledged the outstanding payments and has promised to investigate the matter. However, the union remains skeptical, citing previous broken promises. The standoff has sparked concerns about the morale of police officers, who feel undervalued and unappreciated.
Photography:SAPS
SAPS doesn’t take members serious, another reason why members join private or in-house security firms. SAPS are paid same salary as in-house security officers