For almost 40 years, Warrant Officer Jonase John Mofokeng (59) has been fighting crime and serving his community.

According to West Rand Flying Squad spokesperson Karen du Plessis, Mofokeng retired on March 31 after 39 years of service.

Mofokeng said one of his most defining moments in the police was the day he stood at his passing-out parade from the police college, when he truly felt like a real police officer.

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When he joined the Flying Squad, he was unaware of its existence at first, but was later transferred there, where he gained extensive experience.

One of the highlights of his career was the arrest of 11 suspects and the recovery of nine firearms from individuals who were on their way to commit a bank robbery in Rustenburg.

He also reflected on a moment where he made a difference in someone’s life, when he assisted an elderly couple stranded on the roadside with two flat tyres. He took them to the nearest garage to have the tyres repaired.

“The impact this career had on my personal life and family was significant, as it involved fighting crime while my family always felt safe around me,” he said.

“I had a commitment and willingness to fight crime and make the country a safe place for all, which I will dearly miss. I will miss the support we got from colleagues every time you called for backup, and they came to help,” he concluded.