Lydia ‘Ace’ – Ivory Park’s shoulder to lean on
"I always wanted to work as a police officer and run after criminals."
Lydia “Ace” Tlhotse, is one of Ivory Park’s police heroines because she is always ready and eager to take on the criminal elements in the area.
Tlhotse is prominently known by her football nickname, “Ace”, that was given to her by members of the community. She said a month does not end without her recovering illegal firearms and drugs or apprehending dangerous criminals around Ivory Park. Tlhotse who grew up in Mokopane, Limpopo, joined the SAPS in 2004 as a police constable. She was promoted to sergeant in 2014 after she was awarded several certificates for being the most outstanding police officer in Ivory Park SAPS.
Tlhotse who is a football player in the SAPS, said she has loved police work since she was young.
“I always wanted to work as a police officer and run after criminals. When I was young I saw people being terrorized and abused. That used to get to me because I did not like to see people living in fear of crime. I regard this job as a calling because I never struggled to join the SAPS and from day one, I worked diligently. My passion is to serve justice to the communities,” she added.
Tlhotse came to Tembisa in 1996 after passing her matric. She decided to study Secretarial Management and enrolled at Germiston College. When asked what keeps her going as a successful police officer, Tlhotse said she works hand in hand with community members.
“An important thing that I’ve learnt in policing is to go out there, meet people and work closely with residents. Members of the community are the only source of information about any criminal act that is happening. Being friendly and open with them helps me gain their trust. And later, when there is a problem, they are open to call me and tip me off about any suspects,” said Tlhotse.
She added that she made several arrests as a result of working with residents.
“And I get to enjoy my work because I’ve earned myself sources who phone me at any time concerning crime,” said Tlhotse.
Tlhotse emphasised that she has arrested many dangerous criminals and is never afraid when she later sees them released, walking freely again on the street.
“Policing is the most dangerous job but I always told myself that I am going to go after them and bring them to book. I cannot fear criminals because I am a woman and criminals should not undermine police women because they are still going to be arrested. I’ve accepted that my day to die is known only by God who placed me in this field of work. When the very same criminals I arrest on a daily basis, are out of jail, I meet and greet them. I am not afraid of them. I have survived the most dangerous crime scenes and I am still proud to be a police officer,” explained Tlhotse.
Tlhotse used to be part and parcel of the Gauteng SAPS Soccer Ladies’ team. She received several certificates and trophies. The Station Commander of Ivory Park SAPS recently awarded her a certificate for being the best Vispol member. She has also received several letters of appreciation from members of the community and local councillors acknowledging her work.
Tlhotse advised police officers who allegedly receive bribes from community members, to be honest, dedicated and committed to their work.
