Career Quest

A Hostage Negotiator is responsible for dealing with hostage and suicide related incidents through negotiations. He/she uses hostage negotiation skills in hostage and attempted suicide related incidents, including: bassicades, kidnapping, extortion and other incidents where negotiations are necessary to ensure the safety of a person.

Hostage Negotiators are functional police members and perform this function as a secondary function on a voluntary basis

What are the minimum requirements to become a Hostage Negotiator?

One must have completed Basic Police Training and have at least 5 years experience in functional policing. He/she must have good verbal communication skills, be fluent in English and preferably any other official language. He/she must also be psychologically and physically fit and be in possession of a valid drivers’ licence (code 08).

Training:

Individuals undergo two weeks training course which comprises of both theory and practical aspects relating to hostage and suicide negotiations, personal development, communication skills and knowledge of Legislation Policies and Instructions applicable to hostage and suicide related incidents. Knowledge and procedures of how to deal with victims of hostage and suicide related incidents.

Where can you be stationed?

Hostage Negotiators are stationed at the South African Police Service countrywide.

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