Thohoyandou officer wins top Limpopo SAPS award

LIMPOPO – Lieutenant Colonel Collen Tambani, commander of the Thohoyandou Local Criminal Record Centre, was named the overall winner and employee of the year at the Limpopo SAPS Excellence Awards, held at The Ranch Resort outside Polokwane on October 10.

Tambani received a trophy and certificate in recognition of his dedication, loyalty and exceptional performance within the police service. Originally from Tshiozwi, Tambani credited teamwork and community collaboration for their success.

“We performed well because of the unity between the police, the community and other stakeholders. Things were not easy, but after identifying our challenges, we worked on them and achieved positive results. This award did not come as a surprise, I worked very hard for it,” he said.

Overjoyed by the recognition, Tambani said it was the highest honour he had received in his career.

“This award motivates me to work even harder. It’s not based on an exam or test, but purely on hard work and dedication. Treating every case as serious and not watching the clock when it’s time to go home is what brings success,” he added.

He expressed gratitude to his colleagues and family for their constant support.

“Their encouragement, especially when I work late, means a lot. I’m a born go-getter, always initiating projects that help communities and fight crime. We must continue to work tirelessly as men and women in blue to protect our communities,” he said.

Provincial police commissioner Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe praised Tambani and other award recipients.

“These accolades are a true inspiration. Hard work indeed pays off, and this sets a higher standard for all our members,” she said.