Colonel Mpumelelo Khumalo took over the reins at Umbilo SAPS on May 4.

She is armed with 25 years of expertise, ready to face the monster that is the worrisome crime in the Umbilo policing area.

Khumalo spent five years at Chatsworth SAPS as Vispol Commander, five years as a Relief Commander at Verulam SAPS, five years as a Relief Commander at King Shaka International Airport, CSC Reserve at Durban Harbour SAPS for four years, and three years as an Investigating Officer at KwaMashu SAPS, where she underwent field training.

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Having joined the force in 2002, Khumalo has learned that building meaningful relationships with community structures, private security companies, and the business fraternity is critically important for the Umbilo Police. “Effective policing cannot be achieved by law enforcement alone; it requires a collective effort from all stakeholders within the community,” she said.

Joining the Umbilo team presented mixed emotions for her. “I am still adjusting to my new title of Station Commander while carrying out my duties with diligence. Fortunately, SAPS is a professional organisation, and I had no fear or doubt that members at Umbilo would pull together, not apart, because of the discipline instilled in each of us. I view this as a transition with added or modified responsibilities.

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“Leaving my previous station brought mixed emotions. I had built strong working relationships and a deep understanding of the precinct’s dynamics, co-ordination with other subcomponents, and the members on the ground. I’ll always be grateful for the respect, dedication, and commitment my colleagues showed. Those moments were truly bittersweet, and at times I even felt as if I had betrayed them.

“We must remember the oath we took: when the employer identifies a need, we should respond, ‘Send me.’ I firmly believe God promotes and assigns us, entrusting us with the duty to serve policing to protect our community,” Khumalo shared.

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On the Umbilo policing area being in constant war against escalating crime. She has already identified the huge thorn in the backside and the possible mitigation.

“We have noted an increase in street robberies, particularly involving the theft of cellular phones, as well as theft out of motor vehicles where laptops, handbags, and other valuables are being targeted.

“In response, we will continue to implement the Integrated Prevention of Violent Crime Strategy, guided by ongoing crime trend and pattern analysis within the Umbilo policing precinct. Our operational deployments and targeted interventions will be informed by identified hotspots, emerging trends, and intelligence-driven information to ensure that resources are directed where they are most needed.”

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She added, “However, crime prevention is a shared responsibility. SAPS cannot win this fight alone. The success of our efforts depends on the active participation and collaboration of all stakeholders, including community structures, neighbourhood watch groups, businesses, private security partners, and residents. Together, we can create a safer environment for everyone.”

About alleged “dirty cops,” Khumalo maintains that the integrity of the police force is non-negotiable. “And any allegation of misconduct or corruption involving our members is treated with the utmost seriousness. Where allegations of wrongdoing arise, they will be dealt with through the appropriate disciplinary and criminal justice processes. At the same time, it is important to recognise that the overwhelming majority of our members serve the community with dedication, honesty, and commitment under often challenging circumstances.”

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She acknowledged the exceptional commitment and support of the Umbilo precinct E2 security partners. “Their dedication to crime prevention and willingness to work alongside SAPS has made a significant contribution to enhancing safety within our communities.”

In conclusion, Colonel Khumalo said her team remained committed to strengthening partnerships with community structures and private security companies.

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