Job seekers with tattoos "tend to be gangsters", says Bheki Cele
Police minister Bheki Cele has assured South African residents that they would do their best to recruit suitable police officers - but people with tattoos will not be considered!
Following a mass shooting at an Orlando East tavern over the weekend, Police Minister Bheki Cele addressed the residents of the area.
READ: MAPPED: Tavern killings rock SA, death toll rising
During his speech, the minister assured residents that they would select and recruit additional candidates to serve as police officers in an attempt to minimise the current crime rates.
According to Time Live, an 11-member detective team is also investigating the murders and those responsible for the shootings.
Cele said that all new police applicants will be subject to fitness, psychometric, and integrity testing, as well as medical evaluations during the recruitment process.
READ: Here's what Ian Cameron said to Bheki Cele before being told to "shut up"
He also added that people with tattoos will not be considered for these roles. "When you have a tattoo, we don't hire you because you have a tendency of being a gangster," he said.
This comment has sparked a debate across South Africa, with some agreeing with the minister and many criticising the minister's "toxic stereotypes".
Tune in to the 'Breakfast with Martin Bester', weekdays from 06:00 - 09:00. Stream the show live here or download our mobile app here.