New police commissioner sets out his vision
New national police commissioner General Khehla Sithole says he hopes to turn South Africa into a safe and crime-free environment.
Sithole was formally introduced to the public by Police Minister Fikile Mbalula in Pretoria on Thursday afternoon.
He served as the deputy national police commissioner for policing operations since 2013.
Sithole says while the high crime-rate is a challenge facing the South African Police Service (SAPS), he believes the introduction of a "democratic policing policy" will lead to many more criminals finding themselves behind bars.
The new policy involves regaining the confidence of the community and denying criminals resources, particularly the use of young people in their operations.
Sithole also addressed the issue of police officers being killed in the line of duty.
No national police commissioner has served out a full term since George Fivaz finished his term in 2000.
Experts have pointed to political interference as part of the problem, but Sithole says he believes Mbalula will allow him to get on with the job.
WATCH: Introduction of the newly Appointed National Police Commissioner, General Sithole https://t.co/Dktj1FSpIX
— RSA Police Minister (@MbalulaFikile) November 23, 2017