Concerns over SAPS employees' mental health amid rising sick leave costs

THE PHYSICAL and emotional well being of SAPS employees who are relied on to serve and protect communities has become a point to ponder on.

- DAILY NEWS REPORTER

This was after Police Minister Senzo Mchunu revealed that R131.5 million was paid in sick leave by the SAPS on its members during the 2023/24 financial year.

The financial outlay begs serious questions about the well-being of police officers, especially as hundreds are reported to be on long-term sick leave due to unresolved mental health issues.

Answering parliamentary questions, Mchunu confirmed that 618 SAPS employees have been on paid sick leave for more than six months.

The persistent issue of excessive sick leave within the SAPS dates back to at least 2012, when Parliament began scrutinising the trend during oversight visits.

This ongoing concern reflects not only individual struggles but highlights the broader implications of the pressures faced by police officers in the line of duty.