Today we want to spark an important conversation about the mental well-being of those who serve to protect us. The tragic suicide (last week) of Sergeant Raoul Hugh Murray has shed light on the mental health of police officers and the immense pressure and trauma they face daily.  

According to Cape Town etc website, the Anti-Gang Unit (AGU) officer took his own life by shooting himself in his home in Mitchells Plain last Thursday.  As condolences accumulated, Ian Cameron, chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Police, took to Facebook to share his thoughts on the matter: ‘It is essential for us to do more to look after the mental health of police officers in South Africa. It is heartbreaking to experience what feels like an increased amount of suicides, amongst members that fight such a difficult fight for us as they wear the badge. Rest in peace Sgt.’ 

POPCRU union spokesperson Richard Mamabolo joins us on the line