Police officers honoured for dedicated service

They are the thin blue line between criminals taking over our homes and businesses.

In South Africa, a policeman is killed in the line of duty every 10 days. This according to a statement made by the National Police Commissioner, Riah Phiyega in Johannesburg in 2012.

National crime statistics tell a worrying tale. According to official statistics released by the South African Police Service, murder and attempted murder increased, while robbery with aggravating circumstances increased by 11.2 per cent.

But the story is not all doom and gloom. The number of sexual offences, assault with intent to inflict grievous bodily harm and common robbery have all shown a decline.

However, more than 17 000 people are murdered in this country every year.

The SAPS faces a daunting task of combating crime in areas where a uniform is not respected and criminals are not scared to shoot, stab or even kill policemen.

It is with this in mind that Newcastle SAPS honoured their members who had offered 10, 20 and 30 years of their invaluable services to the police force.

During a medal parade, medals were handed to those officers who have stayed the course, despite the danger, difficulties and obstacles.

The following policemen and women received medals:

10 years: Sergeants E Emam and I Masondo. 20 years: Lieutenant Colonel E van Wezel, Warrant Officers V Mahabeer, T Sithole and B Zwane as well as Sergeants D Masondo and S Thusi. 30 years: Colonel R Khawula and Warrant Officer V Pawunkumar.

Station Commander Brigadier Bhekani Buthelezi presided over the medal parade, and spoke words of thanks and appreciation for the dedicated efforts of the police officers.

He also urged recipients to wear their medals with honour, and not only on special occasions.

“It is an honour to get a medal as it reflects exemplary conduct. This in turn makes it a honour to be a station commander,” he concluded.