Bedfordview’s new station commander ready to crack down on crime

Bedfordview Police Station has welcomed new leadership following the appointment of Colonel Wellington Mathiane as the new station commander.

Mathiane brings more than 30 years of experience as he officially assumed his duties on May 10.

His journey started in 1989 when he joined the force at Tembisa SAPS.

Over the years, he has served in various capacities, including a term in Benoni and Kempton Park.

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Describing himself as a team player, he emphasised the importance of collaborative efforts in combating crime.

He acknowledged that truck hijackings, contact crime, property-related crimes and online fraud need urgent attention.

On how he plans to tackle these challenges, he said, “It’s a matter of integration with other stakeholders like Highway Patrol, EMPD, JMPD and the K9 Unit as well as the security companies.

“I believe they are going to help us a lot.

“Also, we cannot do much without the help of the community.”

With contact crime, he explained that it is mostly domestic related and is advocating for creating awareness and the implementation of social crime prevention strategies.

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On strengthening relationships with stakeholders and working together with the community, he has pledged to build upon existing relationships.

“You don’t fix what isn’t broken.

“We will sustain what is currently in place and check if there is a need for development and improvements,” said Mathiane.

As the station prepares for the upcoming national elections, Mathiane assured that they are operationally ready.
The station is getting ready for the national elections

“The focus is mostly on elections.

“We have been preparing and I can confidently say we are ready,” he said.

With an open channel of communication, he invites residents to share concerns, provide feedback, and work together towards safer neighbourhoods.