The South African Police Service (SAPS) has strongly condemned discriminatory and offensive remarks directed at one of its spokespersons, describing the conduct as unacceptable and contrary to the values of the organisation and the Constitution.
SAPS said it had noted with concern a recording made outside a police station in which a woman criticised a SAPS spokesperson for not communicating in isiZulu and referred to him using a derogatory and tribalistic term commonly used to label people as foreigners.
The spokesperson, Colonel Robert Netshiunda, was born and raised in Limpopo Province. His home language is Tshivenda, one of South Africa’s twelve official languages. SAPS said his deployment in KwaZulu-Natal reflects the diversity and unity that characterise the organisation.
The police service reiterated that discrimination based on language, culture, or race is unacceptable and undermines the constitutional values on which South Africa’s democracy is founded.
KwaZulu-Natal is home to people from diverse racial, cultural, and linguistic backgrounds, not only isiZulu-speaking communities. SAPS said it actively promotes integration, mutual respect, and inclusivity within communities and among its members.
SAPS described the incident as unfair and disappointing, noting that Colonel Netshiunda is a highly qualified officer who serves the public with diligence and professionalism.
The organisation called on communities to promote social cohesion and to show tolerance, respect, and understanding for South Africa’s cultural and linguistic diversity.
Police stations across the country are staffed by officers from various cultural and ethnic backgrounds, a diversity SAPS said strengthens its ability to serve communities effectively.
SAPS also congratulated Colonel Netshiunda on being recognised as Administration Officer of the Year at the recent KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Commissioners’ awards.
