PINETOWN SAPS component head Support Commander Colonel Shireen Ramchunder retires after serving 40 years in the police industry.

Joining the South African Police Service (SAPS) in 1984, she said she was motivated by a strong desire to serve her community and create a positive impact.

Having grown up during a tumultuous time in South Africa’s history, the officer said she understood the importance of having dedicated and passionate individuals to uphold law and order.

Over the years, Ramchunder’s motivation deepened as she saw the difference she made in people’s lives.

“I have experienced the camaraderie among my colleagues and embraced the continuous opportunities for learning.”

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Asked about how SAPS has evolved over the past four decades, she said she has witnessed SAPS undergo significant transformations since 1984 – from the dismantling of apartheid structures to the establishment of a democratic, inclusive and service-oriented police force.

“I’ve witnessed improvements in technology, training, diversity and community policing which have all played crucial roles in this transformation. The organisation has become more inclusive, with greater representation of women and minority groups.

“While challenges remain, particularly in terms of public trust and crime prevention, the SAPS is undeniably a more professional, responsive and inclusive institution today than it was four decades ago.

“The shift toward community-focused, empathetic policing has paved the way for a police force that is better equipped to serve and protect all South Africans.”

Being a woman in what used to be a male-dominated field, Ramchunder said she has faced challenges of gender bias, scepticism about her capabilities and, sometimes, her ability to meet the physical demands of the job which were assumed to be better suited for men.

“I overcame these obstacles by demonstrating competence, resilience and leadership, earning the respect of my colleagues through consistent performance. I sought mentorship and built strong networks of support. I also worked to break down stereotypes, showing that effective policing is about skill, empathy and collaboration, not gender. Over time, these efforts contributed to fostering a more inclusive and respectful environment,” she said.

To aspiring police officers, the retiring officer advised them to remain committed to integrity, professionalism and continuous learning.

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“They must build strong relationships with the communities they serve as effective policing relies on trust and collaboration. Develop resilience as the job can be mentally and physically demanding.

“Aspiring officers must embrace diversity, understanding that policing requires empathy and the ability to navigate complex social dynamics. Prioritise self-care and mental health, and seek support when needed. Above all, they must always serve with a sense of duty, compassion and respect for human rights.”

Now that she is retiring after dedicating almost all her life to serving the community, Ramchunder looks forward to spending time with family, travelling and pursuing old and new hobbies.

Married to a retired policeman, Ramchunder has two daughters, and her hobbies include attending yoga classes, going for long walks, watching television and preparing scrumptious meals for her family.

“I’ll continue contributing to community development through volunteer work,” she added.

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