Alberton residents unhappy with SAPS station of the year award
Alberton residents are up in arms after their local police station won the prestigious "Station of the Year" award. Many claim private security companies do more to keep them safe, while SAPS defends its achievements.
The announcement that Alberton SAPS won the station of the year award has sparked outrage among residents, who argue that private security companies such as CPS, FOX, and SOG are more deserving of the honour.
Many in the community claim that these security firms, rather than the police, are the ones consistently responding to emergencies and keeping Alberton safe.
Residents have also expressed shock that Alberton SAPS received the award despite being under investigation for corruption in 2024.
Community outrage over the award
“We never see any police driving around Alberton. They always say they don’t have vehicles when we need their help,” said Led Lotter, a frustrated local resident.
Others echoed similar concerns, questioning the station’s visibility and effectiveness in addressing crime.
Social media discussions have been flooded with complaints about slow response times, lack of patrols, and perceived inaction from SAPS officers.
@albertonrecord Alberton SAPS Staion Commander and his colleagues arriving at Alberton SAPS for the guard of honour event.
SAPS commander responds
In response to the backlash, Alberton SAPS station commander Colonel Olivein Letloenyane dismissed the corruption allegations and defended the station’s efforts.
“I don’t know anything about the alleged corruption the community is talking about,” he said.
“It’s unfortunate that I cannot please everyone. As Alberton SAPS, we do see the difference we’re making. Gaining community trust is something that we’re working on, and whatever is reported on us, we will work on it.”
Security companies respond
Despite the community’s claims that private security companies deserve the recognition instead, representatives from CPS, and FOX have distanced themselves from the debate.
“We don’t get involved in this as we have a good working relationship with Alberton SAPS,” said a spokesperson for one of the security firms.
Why Alberton SAPS won the award
Despite the criticism, Alberton SAPS was recognised for its 54.7% reduction in contact crimes and a 64.18% increase in police-detected crimes, demonstrating a proactive approach to law enforcement.
@albertonrecord Alberton SAPS, CPF, Community in Blue Patrollers, Pastors Forum, NGOs, and Business Forums gathered to form a guard of honour for Station Commander Colonel Letloenyane.
Key initiatives credited for the station’s success include:
• Revitalising community structures to enhance collaboration with residents
• Improving response times for reported incidents
• Establishing a Victim Empowerment Centre to support vulnerable individuals
• Fostering professionalism and teamwork within the station to boost efficiency
The Annual National Excellence Awards 2025, held at the Durban International Convention Centre on January 26, honoured over 120 police officers, support personnel, reservists, community policing forums, and law enforcement professionals for their outstanding dedication throughout the 2024/25 financial year.
Mixed reactions to the recognition
While some acknowledge the progress Alberton SAPS has made, many residents remain sceptical, believing that private security firms play a bigger role in protecting the community.
The debate continues as Alberton residents call for greater police presence and accountability.
WATCH: Alberton Police Station honoured as best in SA
