Honeydew SAPS reaction team win the Gauteng Vispol and Operations Team of the Year Award
Honeydew SAPS’s reaction team has received the prestigious award for their success in combatting high-priority crimes.
In a significant achievement, the Honeydew SAPS reaction team won the Gauteng Vispol and Operations Team of the Year Award, competing against top police units across the province.
This recognition highlights their dedication and hard work in combatting crime and ensuring community safety.
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The 13-member team, established in 2020, focuses on high-priority cases, including housebreakings, firearm offences, and murders, in response to Honeydew’s reputation as a high-crime area. Over the past year, their efforts have led to multiple arrests, including 68 suspects involved in drug-related crimes and the closure of two unlicensed liquor outlets in Zandspruit. These actions have had a significant impact, particularly in high-crime areas such as Zandspruit, Weltevredenpark, Bromhof, and Boskruin.
The team was set up to address a rise in robberies, especially in the early hours when house and business break-ins are most common. Their success in handling these complex cases has been evident, with members appearing in court to testify and helping to secure strong convictions against offenders. Honeydew CPF Public Relations Officer Michael Steyn noted, “It’s evident that these arrests have positively impacted crime in the area.”
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Despite limited resources, the team continues to deliver. With frequent issues such as faulty phone lines, team members often rely on personal phones to maintain communication. Their resilience in the face of such challenges speaks to their commitment to community safety.
Winning this award not only boosts morale but also brings recognition to the Honeydew Police Station, reinforcing its commitment to serve and protect. For the community, the award fosters trust in the local police force, as residents see clear evidence of their hard work.
With the Gauteng title secured, the team now moves on to the national awards, where they hope to achieve even more recognition for their efforts.
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