MEC Masango warned the officers during a graduation of over 600 young men and women into the South African Police Service (SAPS) on Thursday at a ceremony in held Witbank.
The MEC was quick to point out that corrupt officers were not wanted in the service because they were tarnishing the good image and integrity of the police.
Policing is an essential service with very little financial rewards. Those who want to become rich should resign and pursue business because they will be tempted to fall for corruption.
"Policing is among the critical professions in South African which provide a service and at the same time use force where necessary to ensure safety and security of citizens," said Masango.
He urged the new recruits to behave in a manner consistent with the values of the police service.
"As you join the police service, know that not everything will be easy. You will need to work for your people with respect and integrity. Financial rewards will sometimes not be sufficient and people will try to bribe you in order to perform illegal activities," he said.
In enhancing the dignity of the police service, Masango said the officers should be disciplined and not drink while on duty and have positive attitude towards the communities they serve.
He added that discipline should begin with them as they showed act of heroism, courage and self-sacrifice for serving others by joining the police service. He explained that their conduct and attitude should reflect selflessness and love for people of South Africa.
You should be patriotic about South Africa and its people. All citizens, black, white, coloureds, indians and foreigners depend on your service for their safety and security. Respect your colleagues and your job.
"Whether you have financial and other personal problems, walk with pride and instill a sense of fear to criminals while at the same time you render a friendly service, " he said.
Emalahleni Executive Mayor Clr. Linah Malatji said education was vital for police in ensuring among other things proper writing of statements.
She said that it (education) would also ensure high conviction rate at the courts, which would send a strong message to would-be criminals that crime does not pay.
Meanwhile, the Mpumalanga SAPS Acting Provincial Commissioner, Rex Machabi said while he welcomed the new recruits, it pained him that SAPS lost many young officers due to dismissals from ill-discipline.