WATCH | ‘Go back to Limpopo’: SAPS condemns kwerekwere slur against KZN police spokesperson

by Staff Bona

The South African Police Service (SAPS) has strongly condemned discriminatory and tribalistic remarks made against one of its spokespersons after a recording surfaced of a woman berating him outside a police station.

In a statement posted on X, SAPS said it “condemns in the strongest possible terms the discrimination and offensive remarks directed at one of its dedicated, hardworking, and highly qualified spokespersons,” adding that the incident undermines the values of professionalism and respect within policing.

According to SAPS, the recording captures a woman admonishing a spokesperson for not communicating with her in isiZulu and referring to him as a “kwerekwere,” which the police described as “a deeply offensive term used to label someone as a foreigner.”

The spokesperson, Colonel Robert Netshiunda, was defended by SAPS, which clarified his background and role within the service.

“Colonel Robert Netshiunda was born and raised in Limpopo, which is one of South Africa’s nine provinces. His home language is Tshivenda, one of the country’s twelve official languages,” the statement said.

SAPS added that Netshiunda’s posting in KwaZulu-Natal reflects the constitutional values of diversity and unity within the organisation. “His presence in KwaZulu-Natal reflects the diversity and unity that define the SAPS,” the service said.

Calling for calm and mutual respect, SAPS urged communities to reject intolerance. “The SAPS calls for greater social cohesion among the communities we serve and urges the public to promote tolerance, respect, and understanding of different cultures and languages,” the statement read.

The police service further emphasised that diversity within its ranks is a strength, noting: “Our police stations are staffed by members from a wide range of cultural and ethnic backgrounds, reflecting the rich diversity of South Africa. This diversity strengthens our ability to serve communities effectively.”

Compiled by Betha Madhomu 

First published on African Insider 

Also see: Xenophobia or patriotism? Healthcare professionals reject foreigners seeking free healthcare