To serve and protect – Meet Umhlali SAPS’ sergeant Mpunzana

Having grown up in Khayelitsha township in Cape Town, where violence and delinquency were rife, Umhlali SAPS’ sergeant Pumza Mpunzana knows what an impact police presence made in her own neighbourhood.

Although she started off pursuing a career in electrical engineering and later worked for Telkom, she knew she would find fulfillment working more closely with people.

She switched career paths and started policing in 2003.

“I have always believed that police make a difference in people’s lives,” said Mpunzana. She acknowledges the intense pressures of the job but remains committed because of the love she has for bringing calm, care and sensitivity to tense and traumatic situations.

“When you are a police officer you are also a counsellor and an adviser; people are always looking to you for a sense of comfort and reassurance.”

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She prides herself in being available to offer empathy to people in their time of need.

“I deal with a lot of rape and domestic violence cases. In each one I am careful not to cause more psychological harm to someone who has already been violated.”

Policing requires that everyone be treated with dignity and respect, even when faced with angry frustrated people who lash out at police in confrontational situations.

“You have to be neutral, and know the boundaries of your work. Even in tense situations people still have their rights.”

About the dangers of the job, the wife and mother of three is aware that every day she puts on her uniform she is putting her life on the line.

“You leave home and you do not know whether you will be coming home to your kids that evening. But you continue to take that risk because you know you are serving a bigger purpose,” she said.

Captain Vinny Pillay said the sergeant was a great asset to the Umhlali SAPS team.

“She has done brilliant work here, and I am extremely proud of her,” said Pillay.

Over the next five years Mpunzana hopes to be awarded a higher rank.

“I am capable of handling challenges, I am a team player and I know how to work well with people,” she said.

Policing is strenuous work that takes a toll on the brave individuals who offer themselves to serving and protecting. Sometimes all that makes the difference is a hearty thank you from the community.

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