Schoolboys are honoured by police for their good deed

BURGERSFORT – The Tubatse SAPS have honoured and applauded three boys who found a firearm dumped near a tavern in Praktiseer.

Thabo Dibakwane (10), Henny Mamadisha (13) and Kgotlelelo Dibakwane (13) of Koboti Primary School found the gun while collecting scrap on August 2.

“After the discovery, they placed the gun in a plastic bag and travelled a few kilometres to hand it over to the SAPS,” revealed Capt Frans Sithole from Tubatse SAPS.
“On the day, I was outside the SAPS building when the trio came. I asked them what they were looking for. I was shocked when the showed me the gun. I verified if it was indeed a real gun and also checked if it had bullets. Luckily it wasn’t loaded. The firearm was then placed in an exhibit box,” added Sithole.

The SAPS said investigations continue to determine if the gun was used in criminal activities.
Realising the good work done by the boys, the SAPS management which included the station commander, Lt Col Thikithane Phetla, and Vispol commander, Lt Col Rebecca Malatji, decided to honour them with a good gesture.

The Tubatse SAPS bought uniforms, stationery, bags and several school items for the trio.
Last Thursday the delighted pupils were handed the gifts.

Those who attended the event included members of CPF, youth desk, teachers and Tubatse SAPS management.
“By bringing the firearm to the station they saved so many lives. They are our heroes and therefore deserved to be honoured,” said Phetla.

The Koboti principal, Mankwe Ramadimetja, said they are raising good and well-mannered pupils.

“Our kids are well mannered. They found the firearm and brought it to the station. They did not imitate what they see in movies. We also thank the SAPS for crime prevention school visits that are conducted on a yearly basis. Pupils are always taught about dangerous weapons and to report any crimes and abuse they encounter.”