Cassel Mathale warned police officers against using excessive force or violating the code of conductThe Deputy Police Minister said that some police practices were costing the State millions of randsMatahle's comments sparked backlash, with South Africans noting that police confront armed criminals dailyDeputy Police Minister Cassel Mathale warned police officers against using excessive force when dealing with criminals. FREE STATE - Cassel Mathale has sparked anger online after warning police officers against using excessive force. The Deputy Minister of Police said that action will be taken against members who violate the South African Police Service’s (SAPS) code of conduct and ethics. Mathale’s statement echoes Professor Firoz Cachalia’s commentsThe deputy minister’s words echo those of Acting Police Minister, Professor Firoz Cachalia. The Deputy Minister made the comments during the Interministerial Crime Prevention community engagement on 6 January 2026.