Armed with a whistle and a pair of sensible shoes, EMPD accident investigator Constable Matubatse Mashabela effortlessly directs traffic through the Great North and High roads intersection in Brentwood Park, easing congestion and tempers.

In recent months, the Crystal Park resident has been setting his alarm a little earlier in order to be of service to his community, voluntarily conducting point duties not only at this beleaguered intersection but also at Great North and Louisa Street, as well as Stanley Road.

Benoni City Times caught up with the passionate law enforcer shortly after completing his duties on October 16.

Grabbing a quick sip of water, he makes his way back to his official vehicle, the smile on his face indicating that he is content with his efforts.

“I joined the EMPD in 2009. Becoming a law enforcement officer is a calling to service above self, and I am passionate about making a difference in my community,” he said.

“For the past 12 years, I have been working at the accident unit in Kempton Park, investigating serious and fatal accident scenes, but like all EMPD officers, I had to complete basic training.”

Waiting for his turn to safely navigate across intersections along Great North Road, which have been plagued with malfunctioning traffic lights for nearly a year, Matubatse decided to become proactive.

“During peak-hour traffic, these intersections become incredibly dangerous,” he said.

“Motorists become frustrated because they are running late and, subsequently, take chances when crossing, putting their lives and those of fellow-road users at risk. Rather than having to be deployed to assess and investigate a serious accident, I opted to ensure that I am at affected intersections to safely direct traffic.”

Reporting for duty from 06:00 to 08:00, Matubatse said he feels fulfilled knowing that he is contributing to motorists starting their day on a more positive note.

“I am proud to wear the EMPD badge. It says that I am committed to the service and those we are entrusted to protect,” he said.

“I know faith in law enforcement agencies is dwindling, but I believe that even the smallest act of dedication could restore its dignity.”

Flashing a quick salute to a motorist as they pass with an appreciative hoot, Matuhatse said his actions are not a pursuit for accolades, but rather a display of active citizenship.

“I am a father. One day, I hope that my child will become an adult with strong morals and values. The only way he will learn these characteristics is if I lead by example.”

Speaking about the vast amount of non-functional traffic lights, he says that he has seen community members stepping up in an effort to direct traffic.

“Although this is admirable, I urge them to refrain from stepping into the middle of an intersection, he said.

“You are not trained and therefore putting your life on the line. I would rather implore my colleagues to heed the call of duty.”

Hats off to you, sir!

Sharon van Zyl, Benoni, writes:
As malfunctioning traffic lights continue to affect us, I would like to highlight someone who truly makes a difference: a dedicated traffic controller who works tirelessly at the intersection of Great North and High roads.

I do not know his name, but I believe his efforts deserve recognition.

He is tall, friendly and always equipped with a whistle.

You will often see him running around energetically, doing everything he can to make our lives easier during our morning commute.

What is truly remarkable is his initiative. While conducting point man duties at any of the affected intersections on Great North Road, if he notices traffic backing up at another crossing, he jumps into his patrol vehicle and races there to ease the congestion.

His commitment and proactive approach are commendable, and I believe he deserves to be acknowledged.