A total of 15 South African Police Service (SAPS) personnel have flew off to the 2024 Paris Olympics to assist with policing duties.
The members, who are from various regions and consist of seven females and eight guys, left South Africa on Wednesday evening.
Brigadier Athlenda Mathe, a National Police spokesperson, said members with more than ten years of experience in the Public Police Order Unit are anticipated to begin their duties ahead of the two-week summer Olympic Games.
Explaining the deployment, Mathe stated that SAPS is the only SADC law enforcement organization participating in this talent exchange opportunity.
“This is in relation to crowd management control capabilities following a request from the French Government for members from various security officers including SAPS to provide support to its Interior Security in their mission to ensure a safe and secure event.”
She stated that this was funded by the French government.
SAPS National Commissioner General Fannie Masemola wished them well in their undertakings.
He explained that the possibility to deploy members on a worldwide scale allows them to share their skills and information in order to improve SAPS crowd management capabilities.
“Our Public Order Police officers have participated in the policing of various world-class events, including the BRICS summit and AGOA, which were held without incident or disturbance.
“We are confident that this opportunity will allow members to come back to share and transfer skills and knowledge to other members which will assist us in enhancing the policing of large gatherings and crowds.”
Mathe closed by wishing the men and women in blue good luck.
“Best wishes on this mission; we are confident you will represent the country with pride and professionalism. Continue to fly the SAPS and SA flags aloft.
