Salute to the ‘honorouble’ Capt Tshilate as he retires

The well-known and loved captain and spokesperson for Heidelberg SAPS talked about when he used to watch the parades of the police, correctional services and the defence force in the ’80s.

“I felt like one of those law-enforcement agents and decided to join the police,” he said.

Tshilate completed several tertiary courses and diplomas in policing, communications and public relations amongst others. During his service in the police, he was acknowledged over the years for his service excellence and also appreciated outside the police service for the work he did at schools and in the community.

“The SAPS and South African Policing Union invested a lot in me to motivate, guide and encourage the youth and elderly people in various spheres of life. I am grateful that I could return the investment through my community initiatives. If I helped anyone to improve on a better life for today, tomorrow and beyond, my efforts were worthwhile,” he added.

‘The honourable’ as he was known and addressed by his colleagues was dear to the community.

“He always had a smile on his face and those that trembled on his way were greeted with respect and an inspiring conversation before their ways parted again. He leaves a big gap in the SAPS and Heidelberg community. There comes a time in your life when you feel ‘enough is enough’. For Thillie, the time has come and I believe he’s going to have a good rest,” said Capt Madeleine von Wielligh from the Heidelberg SAPS.

Sgt Harry Manaka from Duduza SAPS described Tshilate as a marvellous person, a selfless leader with great qualities who was motivated by the success of others. He appreciated people’s efforts and liked to see change and positivity in people.

“He told me in particular that he ran his race for many years, he now wants to see us touching and changing people’s lives. If we can go to bed every day knowing that we have made a difference in someone’s life, we would sleep better,” Manaka said.

Tshilate loved to pass his knowledge to others and firmly believed that it was no use for him overshadowing the younger members and taking the spotlight. Instead, he wanted others to do things and learn so that tomorrow, they could be better.

“It is sad to see him leave, but a life well lived and lessons never to be forgotten. I wish him all the best,” Manaka added.

Tshilate has been married for 34 years and has four sons. He said that he will be relaxing first and adjust his mindset, but believed that endeavours would unfold soon to avoid boredom. He will also be managing the activities of the Maungani-Tshimboni Village outside Thohoyandou in Limpopo where he is a headman.

When asked what his message is to the community he served so well, he said, “The importance of the community is unity, creation of peace, working together to improve lives and coordinating the development of the area we live in. Communities must partner with the police to fight and reduce crime and stand together as different racial groups to build a better life and enjoyable environment for all.

Together, Everyone Achieve More (TEAM). May the good almighty God bless everyone abundantly.”

His humanity, commitment and contribution in fighting crime through communication, teamwork and many special relationships with the community will surely be missed.

On behalf of the community, HERAUT wants to express great appreciation to the ‘honourable’ Capt Tshilate for his dedication and wishes him well as he embarks on a new chapter of his life.