FCS detective’s passion and dedication recognised

Shortly after completing his matric, Benoni Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences Unit (FCS) officer, Sergeant Kaizer Mbele had to re-evaluate his future plans when his application to undergo training as a traffic officer was rejected.

Desperate to pursue a career within law enforcement, he reluctantly applied to the SAPS and shortly after completing his training, was assigned to the customer service centre at the Benoni Police Station.

With 21 years of service under his belt, Mbele has not only achieved great heights in his career but has become one of the FCS’ most highly decorated members.

Dressed in a crisp black suit, the father of four was recently awarded the SAPS Gauteng Excellence Award FCS Investigator of the Year (level 5 to 7) for 2023/2024.

This is the third time that this warrior for justice has received this coveted title since 2009.

A warm smile spreads across his face as the detective recalls the how he went from novice beat officer to crime officer at the Benoni detectives branch.

Horrors
“Within six months of working in the CSC, I was given the opportunity to move over to the detective’s unit while undergoing the required training,” he said, his eyes falling on his trophy.

“In 2009, the FCS was established and I was recruited into the unit. The transition was seamless, however, psychologically and emotionally I needed to steel myself against the horrors I would encounter daily.

“As a police officer and investigator we are often come face-to-face with the most disturbing facets of human nature. Unfortunately, you are never truly prepared for some of the cases that land on your desk.”

Speaking of his 15 years at the unit, Mbele said when meeting victims of crime he is saddened to see them so vulnerable and broken.

“The pain in their eyes is my motivation to ensure that justice is served,” he said.

“I do my upmost to investigate every matter as if it is my only case and to ensure that the investigation is meticulously filed to ensure that perpetrators face the full wrath of the law.

“I may not be able to restore the victim’s stolen dignity but hope that by ensuring those who infringed on their human rights no longer have the ability to harm them or others, aids in their healing process.”

The unit’s commander, Colonel Cecile Veldman said Mbele’s unwavering dedication and passion contributes greatly to good convictions being attained.

“Mbele is the embodiment of service to others,” she said.

“He investigates every case to the best of his ability, drawing on experience to ensure every victim’s voice is heard.

“He is an asset to this unit, his peers and the community at large.”

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