Benoni SAPS detective Capt Peter Mbonani finds satisfaction in solving a mystery and putting criminals behind bars.
The 57-year-old is part of the Trio Task Team and investigates serious and violent crimes.
His diligent investigations recently led to Jurgen Vandeekere being sentenced to two life sentences for the murder and rape of Chantelle Barnard.
Mbonani said investigating the case was not easy as Vandeekere fled the country in 2013 and then handed himself over to the police in January this year.
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“It feels good to see him found guilty and I am satisfied that justice was served for Chantelle,” he said.
The Daveyton resident said his satisfaction comes from seeing justice was served, and that pushes him towards success.
Over his 37 years in the SAPS, Mbonani has received numerous awards and recognition for his work.
He explained that while he was in high school at Mabuya Secondary School, he knew he wanted to be a detective.
“I was inspired by the Daveyton SAPS branch commander to become a detective and they helped me apply to the police college,” said Mbonani.
“Back in the ’90’s there was a lot of gangsterism in Daveyton and I wanted to put a stop to it.”
Mbonani said while he was working as a detective at the Daveyton Police Station, he was well-known and trusted by the community as he would always solve cases given to him.
In 2005, Mbonani went to Sudan for a year to assist in their murder cases.
The detective said what drives him to excel is he enjoys being challenged, thinking out of the box, and his passion for serving and protecting the community.
He added that anyone who wants to be a detective must have passion because their work is dangerous and you must feel fulfilled at the end of the day.
“You must also be a critical thinker and be able to always open your eyes, talk less and let your actions do the talking.”
Benoni SAPS spokesperson Capt Nomsa Sekele said the SAPS management is proud of Mbonani as he always shows dedication to his investigations.
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