Police officer who made the ultimate sacrifices during 41 years of service
As we observe National Police Day today, January 28, Colonel Jackson Moodley of Pinetown SAPS explains the sacrifices he had made since he joined the force 41 years ago.
BEING a police officer is not a job, but a service, which means that the role of a police officer goes beyond simply performing a paid job.
These are the words of a Pinetown SAPS veteran detective Lieutenant Colonel Jackson Moodley as we observe the National Police Day, today, on January 28. Moodley, a commander of the Detective Service Centre (DSC) at Pinetown SAPS, explains the sacrifices he had made since he joined the force 41 years ago. Moodley is expected to retire at the end of this month. He says being a police officer signifies a commitment to actively contribute to the safety and well-being of the community.
ALSO read: Umbilo police officers set to retire
“This service often requires personal sacrifice and dedication to serving the public good, rather than just fulfilling work hours. Police are expected to actively engage with the community, build relationships, and work towards preventing crime, not just responding to incidents after they occur,” says Moodley.
He highlighted that it has been an honour to dedicate himself to keeping the community safe for 41 years. “Growing up, my family instilled in me the value of giving back. Becoming a police officer allowed me to make a real difference in people’s lives and bring justice to those who need it most. There is no greater reward than solving a case and seeing the relief and gratitude on a victim’s face. It is a feeling that never gets old,” says the commander.
When asked about the most challenging aspects in the service, Moodley says every case is unique, but the ones that involve victims who have suffered greatly, like the Sanele May case, are particularly challenging. “However, it is in those moments that I am reminded of why I became a police officer in the first place. The sacrifices I made to keep people safe include missing countless family gatherings, birthdays, and holidays. My loved ones have made immense sacrifices, supporting me through the long hours, late nights, and endless cups of coffee. But it’s been worth it, knowing that I have made a difference,” he adds.
The Colonel says what makes him a different police officer to others, is that he had always believed that every case is personal, and every victim deserves closure. “That mantra has driven me to go above and beyond, to leave no stone unturned, and to fight tirelessly for justice. The National Police Day is a day to reflect on the sacrifices made by my fellow officers and me. It is a reminder that our work is not just a job, but a calling to serve and protect our communities,” Moodley concluded.
For more from Northglen News, follow us on Facebook , X or Instagram. You can also check out our videos on our YouTube channel or follow us on TikTok.
Click to subscribe to our newsletter – here
