EDITOR – I would like to recount my recent experience with the SAPS in Hillcrest.
I was unlucky enough to be broadsided by a taxi going through a red light on Thursday, 16 April. Having gotten the details of the driver and (uninsured) vehicle I realised I would need to go to the police station to report the incident.
I must admit that I have not been to the police station for quite a few years, but remembering my last experience (untidy, unclean and slovenly service) it was with huge trepidation that I went into the Hillcrest SAPS charge office.
When I walked in I was pleasantly surprised to see a totally refurbished office. The duty constable was assisting someone to complete a form, but still looked up and noted my presence. The whole place was spotlessly clean and neat. Having gotten that customer busy with the form he then dealt with the next two people in the queue, greeted me and handed me the necessary form and left me with it while dealing with other customers who had come in. While dealing with them, he checked on my progress and assisted me where necessary.
When I had completed the form he checked it, corrected me where I had gone wrong, again with a pleasant demeanour, and thanked me for coming in.
Despite the unpleasant experience of the accident I left the police station feeling good because the service had been so pleasant and efficient.
Well done to Constable Khumalo for creating another well satisfied customer and for being a credit to the service. Keep up the good work.
Vic Bonsor
Hillcrest
