Constable Lacastar Botsane (33), a detective from Wedela, is challenging outdated stereotypes about police officers by achieving academic excellence. On June 5, he proudly graduated with an Honours Degree in Risk Management from UNISA, adding to an already impressive list of qualifications earned while serving in the SAPS.

Raised in Kopela Village near Delareyville in the North West, Botsane faced financial hardship after matric, making university seem out of reach. Undeterred, he joined the police force and pursued his studies part-time—first obtaining an N6 in Human Resource Management, then a degree in Forensic Investigations, and now an honours qualification.

“I want to dispel the myth that policemen are not educated,” says Botsane, who joined the Wedela detective unit in 2023 after working with the Carletonville Detectives. “Some professionals assume we’re uneducated, but many officers, especially some of the Carletonville detectives have degrees, and some senior police officers even hold Master’s.”

Botsane believes his academic journey strengthens not only his own abilities but also the capacity of the SAPS to fight crime more effectively. “Education sharpens our thinking and helps us serve the community better,” he says. “The more we learn, the smarter we work.”

With passion, persistence, and professionalism, this Wedela detective is proving that intelligence and dedication are just as much a part of the badge as bravery.