Linden Police Station detective works to reduce crime in the area

Constable Mathabo Kekana, a new detective at the Linden Police Station, got her first conviction and believes it sends a positive message to the locals that justice can be done.

Kekana joined the force in 2019 from Tshwane SAPS Academy. She started working at Linden Police Station in 2020, at the community service centre department front desk. A year later she moved to the crime prevention unit, and then her enthusiasm for justice led her to the detective unit.

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She explained that being a detective gives her a sense of purpose and job satisfaction. “In 2024, I was sent to Hammanskraal Academy, to equip myself with more knowledge, studying a resolving of crime learning programme. Being away from family and loved ones motivated me, and that, itself, taught me to be self-disciplined.”

Kekana cracked her first case, one of criminals that have been terrorising the residents of Blairgowrie, and surrounding areas, for a long time. The suspects were charged with break in, theft, and trespassing. After the arrest, the accused were found guilty and sentenced to three and half years in prison.

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Kekana said that this will show residents that they are out there working hard to bring them justice, and they should never feel discouraged to report any act of crime. “We can assist each other in apprehending the suspects and getting convictions. We need a mutual respect for each other, as convictions and arrests are a big win for the aggrieved party, as well as the investigating officer.”

She added that, as an investigating officer, her mandate is to: Thoroughly investigate a reported crime, gather all relevant evidence, interview witnesses, and, ultimately, build a case to either bring charges against a suspect or conclude that no criminal offense occurred, all while adhering to legal procedures and ethical standards.
“I am motivated by a desire to achieve justice by uncovering the truth in a case,” she said “Holding perpetrators accountable, and helping victims find resolution. I find satisfaction in seeing a case through to a successful conclusion. Even when faced with challenges.”

The Linden community is advised to feel free and protected, and to report any sorts of crime. “As the police we are here to help the residents. We take each and every case seriously. We want to end crime in our area, but in order to achieve that we need residents to report any act of crime.”

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