WORKING as an intern at the Pinetown SAPS fuelled Detective Constable Sipho Sibiya’s love and passion for serving his community.

Being raised by a police officer, whom Sibiya said he looked up to, also played a huge role in going over and beyond his duties.

His hard work and dedication are evident as he recently received a certificate from eThekwini’s district commissioner, Major General Makhosazana Kheswa, for his investigations that led to an arrest and conviction of eight men who robbed a business in Hill Street, Pinetown.

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Speaking about his police journey, the 35-year-old said he believes that it was what he was destined to do.

“When I finished matric, I studied Human Resources. I was fortunate to do my in-service training here at Pinetown SAPS.

“That love I had returned, and I felt I should be out there, protecting the community. I applied and enrolled at the college in 2013 and started working at this station in 2014.”

Recalling the night of the arrests, Sibiya said it happened on February 5 last year.

“We were patrolling when we received a complaint of a business robbery in Hill Street. We attended to the scene and found the eight suspects still inside. The eight were all arrested, and a ninth one, who was waiting to transport the stolen items, was also arrested not far from the scene.

“The eight foreign nationals were each sentenced to six years in prison and were ordered to pay a fine of R6 000 for being in the country illegally. The ninth man received two years in jail for conspiracy.”

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The dedicated officer said there is nothing more fulfilling, and it gives him such relief to see a victim getting justice.

“Being a police officer and investigating is my life; I do not see myself doing anything else.”

Like most people, Sibiya said he would like to see himself grow in the ranks, gaining more experience and training younger officers.

He recently obtained another conviction. “There are men who recently received a 25-year sentence for business robbery.”

He said he understands the frustrations that go with attending court cases as most of the time, the process drags on.

“I always advise people to be patient. I make it my mission to update people on what is happening with their cases – I believe that is important when working together with the community, police and courts. I believe we can make a huge difference.”

Pinetown SAPS communications officer Jennifer Naidu said they were happy with the recognition of the work done by their member.

“Sibiya is dedicated, going over and above the normal call of duty, often working days as well as nights, ensuring that offenders are brought to book and justice prevails. It is indeed an honour and privilege to have a member of this calibre at our very own Pinetown Detectives [Unit] – an effort deserving the necessary recognition,” said Naidu.

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