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SAPS opens applications for 5,500 police trainees

Published

The online recruitment drive for the 2026/2027 financial year runs from October 31 to November 13. SAPS said applications are free and no trainee position is for sale.

Police spokesperson Col Amanda van Wyk warned applicants about fraudsters. She said they may demand money in exchange for a job or promise to influence the recruitment process.

Trainees will receive a stipend of R5,000 a month during training. Recruits who hold a qualification at NQF Level 6 or higher will train at a SAPS academy for six months. Other recruits will follow a nine-month programme.

Key facts

Who
Amanda van Wyk (Police spokesperson (Col)); South African Police Service (Recruiting organisation); Thando Thabete (947 presenter who interviewed van Wyk)
What
SAPS opened a nationwide online recruitment drive for 5,500 police trainees for 2026/2027, warning applicants that applications are free and to beware of scams.
When
31 October 2026
Where
South Africa
Status
Reported

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