POLOKWANE – Provincial police commissioner Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe, has expressed pride following the recognition of the province’s SAPS members at the National Excellence Awards. The ceremony was held on January 26 at the Durban International Convention Centre, KwaZulu-Natal.

Limpopo’s SAPS was represented across various categories, including Operations Team of the Year, Senior Operational Manager for both Crime Detection and Policing, Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences Team of the Year, and Police Station of the Year, among others.

Among these achievements, the highlight was the Man of the Year award, presented to Detective Sergeant Nghezimani Shadrack Mabunda of the Malamulele SAPS in the Vhembe District.

Mabunda, a 46-year-old member of the Trio Crimes Unit, has demonstrated dedication and effectiveness in combating crime. His achievements include solving complex cases, recovering stolen vehicles, and apprehending suspects.

Beyond his policing duties, he is actively involved in community engagement, using sports and youth programmes to tackle gangsterism and promote positive role models.

Over the years, Mabunda has received other accolades for his work. These include:

• 2016: Best Operational Member of the Year at the Provincial Excellence Awards.
• 2017: Second place nationally in the Best Flying Squad of the Year category.
• 2023/2024: Mr. Vhembe District, Best Man of the Year at District Excellence Awards, Best Sportsman of the Year, and second place as Best Detective of the Year.

One of his career highlights happened during his time at Marikana, where he was involved in a shootout with five armed robbery suspects, resulting in the recovery of four firearms and the neutralisation of one suspect. This incident showcases his bravery and quick thinking in high-pressure situations.

Mabunda’s career began in 2006 with SAPS in Krugersdorp, later transferring to Tlhabane and Marikana police stations before joining Malamulele SAPS in 2010.

His move to Limpopo was influenced by personal challenges, including becoming the primary caregiver for his siblings after the loss of his mother.

Despite these obstacles, Mabunda has excelled, earning widespread respect within the SAPS and his community. In 2021, he furthered his education in policing at STADIO, completing his degree in December 2024.

Lieutenant General Hadebe praised Mabunda for his commitment and achievements. “This prestigious award is a testament to Detective Sergeant Mabunda’s outstanding dedication, hard work, and commitment to serving and protecting our communities. Detective Sergeant Mabunda is an exemplary police official who embodies the values of our police service, and his achievement is a source of pride for all of us,” she said.