EMPD officers rewarded for excellence
The categories for the medal recipients included loyal service, contribution to outstanding service, commendation, bravery and certificates of excellence for external stakeholders.
The EMPD hosted a parade to acknowledge and honour members of the force for their dedication to serving the community.
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Held on June 22 at the EMPD Kempton Park Precinct, the event was the first of its kind.
The event’s co-hosts were media liaison supervisor Kobedi Mokheseng and media liaison officer for the southern region, Lerato Monyane.
Ekurhuleni Mayor Sivuyile Ngodwana, the MMC for Community Safety, Sizakele Masuku, and the EMPD chief of police, Issac Mapiyeye, were invited as special guests.
“Bravery helps us face our problems without bowing down to them, and cowardice brings nothing but misery.
“We must never succumb to fear, especially in our profession,” said Mapiyeye in his speech.
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In her speech, Masuku briefly spoke about the importance of the event.
“Today is about publicly acknowledging officers for their contribution to the EMPD,” she said.
The mayor spoke before the deserving recipients received their medals.
He touched on the importance of the services EMPD officers provide to the community.
“No amount of money can equate to what these men and women in uniform do to protect and serve us,” he said.
The categories for the medal recipients included loyal service, contribution to outstanding service, commendation, bravery and certificates of excellence for external stakeholders.
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Some of the standout recipients included the Mapiyeye, with 40 years of service; Constable Malose Johannes Lephoto, with 35 years of service; inspector Sehlodi Ananius Malapane with 30 years of service; Constable Mabale Gladys Mahlangu for 20 years of service and K-9 Gunner.
Making history by being the first service animal honoured, five-year-old Gunner received a K-9 cross for bravery.
Authorities awarded him for his service in finding evidence in many cases with his handler, Warrant Officer Adriaan Fourie.
“The purpose of this event is to honour officers who put their lives on the line daily.
“It is to show them that their service is not in vain and also encourage them to keep on going,” said the media liaison officer for the northern region, Marie Mashishi.
