South African Minister of Police, General Bheki Cele, has been awarded China’s Great Wall Commemorative Medal.
The award recognises the South African Police Service’s contributions to law enforcement cooperation between China and South Africa and the sterling security measures during the 15 BRICS Summit.
The awards ceremony took place in Lianyungang, China, on Friday.
Wang Xiaohong, China’s Minister of Public Security, presented the medal and expressed appreciation for the South African Police Service’s role in ensuring the safety and security of Chinese citizens, particularly during significant events such as the BRICS Summit and the state visit of Chinese President Xi Jinping to South Africa in August 2023.
Minister Cele acknowledged the strong relationship between South Africa and China, highlighting the importance of collaborative efforts in law enforcement.
He emphasised the need for a formal policing exchange program and collaboration and training to enhance the effectiveness of the country’s officers in blue.
In addition to receiving the award, Minister Cele participated in the Global Public Security Cooperation Forum held in Lianyungang.
He discussed deepening collaborations to advance public security among over 50 countries. He also met with the President of Interpol, Major General Ahmed Naser Al-Raisi, to enhance African countries’ participation in utilizing Interpol’s security offerings and technological innovations to combat transnational crimes and contribute to Africa’s developmental agenda.
South Africa and China’s policing relationship
- Cooperation in law enforcement: China and South Africa have engaged in bilateral cooperation to enhance law enforcement efforts. This cooperation includes sharing information, intelligence, and best practices to combat various forms of crime, including transnational organized crime, cybercrime, drug trafficking, and terrorism.
- Security for high-level visits and events: The SAPS has been responsible for providing security and ensuring the safety of Chinese dignitaries during their visits to South Africa, such as state visits by the Chinese President and other high-profile events like the BRICS Summit. This showcases a collaborative effort to maintain public safety during significant gatherings.
- Training and capacity building: There have been efforts to establish a formal policing exchange program between China and South Africa. This program aims to facilitate the exchange of personnel and expertise and provide training opportunities to enhance the capabilities of law enforcement agencies in both countries.
- Technological advancements and forensic cooperation: The collaboration focuses on improving technological advancements and forensic capacity within the SAPS. This cooperation aims to enhance investigative capabilities, utilising the latest technologies and methodologies to solve crimes and maintain public order effectively.
- Recognition and awards: The Great Wall Commemorative Medal awarded to Minister Bheki Cele signifies the acknowledgement of the South African Police Service’s contributions to law enforcement cooperation and the safety of Chinese citizens. Such awards highlight the importance of mutual recognition and appreciation between the two nations in the realm of policing and security.
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Overall, the relationship between the South African Police Service and China involves cooperative efforts, information sharing, training, and mutual recognition to enhance law enforcement capabilities and ensure the safety and security of their respective populations.
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