Richard Mamabolo , Popcru spokesperson (The Police and Prisoners Civil Rights Union)

First Thing is First |  Last Week, Police Minister Bheki Cele released the Q2 crime stats, revealing a rise in serious crimes, including rape, assault and murder. This includes shocking statistics of the rising child murders in the country with more than 2 000 children killed in the last four years. Is the police losing the war on crime? The rate of murders in South Africa increased by 20,7% in the three-month period between July and September compared to last year, with an overall increase of 1 056 cases. The number of kidnapping cases has increased by 445 between July and September compared to the same period last year, as 2 000 cases were recorded.     In SA police get a bad rap, as with any job in the world, there are bad cops. Period. Just as there are incredible cops. Period. Whilst it seems they are losing the war on crime…It goes without saying that police face challenges daily, besides being perpetually at risk; other challenges such as bribery, intimidation and retribution are also ever-present. Some still manage to give honour and dignity to the uniforms they wear some don’t.  Is the public being unfairly harsh on the police? As a member of the police force what are your challenges and experiences? Are you overwhelmed? Guest: Richard Mamabolo , Popcru spokesperson (The Police and Prisoners Civil Rights Union)