The Umzinyathi District has commended its dedicated police members and community partners who were recognised at the SAPS KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Visible Policing Appreciation Awards Ceremony, held in Durban last Friday.

The prestigious event celebrated excellence, commitment and dedication in policing. Several members from Umzinyathi flew the district’s flag high, earning top honours for their service.

Award recipients and nominees included:

• Sergeant Khanyisile Msibi (in absentia) – Winner: Woman Employee of the Year and Station CPF Co-ordinator of the Year

• Captain Yashiv Bhagwandeen (Glencoe) – First runner-up: Visible Policing and Operations Employee of the Year (Level 8–12)

• Sergeant Ndlamlenze – Second runner-up: Visible Policing and Operations Employee of the Year (Level 5–7)

• Constable Sheida Phiri – First runner-up: District CPF Co-ordinator of the Year

• Lloyd Kgotshane (Glencoe) – First runner-up: District CPF Chairperson of the Year

Umzinyathi District Commissioner, Major General Frances Slambert, congratulated all the award recipients, saying their achievements reflect the strength and unity of the district.

“These accolades are not only individual milestones, but a testament to the hard work, teamwork and dedication of the entire Umzinyathi policing community,” said Slambert.

She added that the recognition serves as motivation for others within the service to strive for excellence and uphold the values of commitment, integrity and community partnership.

“Our nominees have shown that dedication and compassion in policing do not go unnoticed. They are role models and an inspiration to their colleagues,” she concluded.