24 Mar 2019

The English proverb ‘money talks’ meaning money has effect could be felt at the Special Support Group Camp hall on March 21 during President Dr Mokgweetsi Masisi’s familiarisation tour of the Botswana Police Services facilities (BPS).

Beams of smiles, laughter, hands clapping and ululations punctuated the President’s speech when addressing 500 police officers of varied ranks.

Police Commissioner, Mr Keabetswe Makgophe, acknowledged the recently announced salary increases, saying that was a sign of good things to come.

“I want to take this opportunity to recognise the shock we were exposed to recently. You made history in the name of BPS with the significant salary increases that you announced that have never happened in the history of the organisation,” he said.

He went on to state that “I want to say you have made history and to our surprise so soon after taking the leadership of the country. This is a sign of many more good things to come in future,” he said.

Among others, the entry level for police constable would be improved from B3 to B1 and the station commanders who are at the rank of superintendent would be upgraded from D4 to D2 salary scale.

Mr Makgophe further stated that he had so far addressed the police officers to note that the significant salary increases were a huge challenge to them because there should be a return on investment and therefore, they could not afford to disappoint.

He further stated that BPS was delighted by the establishment of the fifth division of BPS in Maun as well as the 17th police district in Shakawe beginning April.

Mr Makgophe further stated that it was crucial to have SSG establishment at all police divisions since they performed operational support that included public order management, provision of border security, anti-poaching operations, rescue operations, high risk operations and escorts and VIP protection.

He, however said he was pleased that BPS had managed to establish SSG component at Palapye to serve the North Central region, adding that 14 base camps have been established along Botswana -Zimbabwe border to provide security and five camps within the Central Kalahari Game Reserve on anti-poaching operations.

The operational and specialised sections include Special Weapons and Tactics, Scuba, K9 (canine/dog) mounted horse and band services.

For his part, Gaborone West station commander, Superintendent Onious Madziba said BPS was more than ready to serve the country.

He commended Minister of Defence Justice and Security, Mr Shaw Kgathi for influencing the public safety agenda. ENDS