Detective Constable Palesa Prisilla Mahlangu of the Secunda SAPS was awarded the Best Woman of the Year 2026 certificate on September 10.

The certificate recognised her outstanding performance and thorough investigations in bringing justice to victims and families affected by crime.

Two of her prominent cases included the murder of René Müller, whose husband, Werner Müller, was sentenced by the Middelburg High Court on August 6 to 40 years in prison, and a 2022 cold case involving victim Nomvula Ntetwa, in which the perpetrator was sentenced at the Evander Regional Court on August 12 to 15 years in prison for attempted murder, kidnapping, and housebreaking.

Mahlangu has served in the SAPS as a detective for 10 years, following in the footsteps of her father, Captain Tshediso Samuel Moloi of the Sunnyside Police Station in Pretoria.

She is a devoted Christian and mother to two daughters, aged 12 and five.

Her career in the SAPS began with general investigations into cases such as shoplifting, common assault, and domestic violence before she moved into cold cases, where she investigates murders, culpable homicide, reckless and negligent driving, and other serious crimes.

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The first cold case she tackled was that of Nomvula.

“This was a challenging case. I had to start from scratch, reading all the dockets, forensic results, and obtaining outstanding statements.

“The docket went back on the court roll and was transferred from Secunda to Evander, where sentencing was recently passed,” said Mahlangu.

She said the case gave her confidence in herself, as it was the first murder case she had investigated.

“It has also opened more opportunities for me in investigation. There is more to investigation than the arrest, going to court and being done,” said Mahlangu.

She said it had opened doors to working hand-in-hand with the court system, as well as with victims and their families.

The Müller case attracted national attention and was initially reported to police as a missing couple’s case.

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While investigating the crime scene, Mahlangu noticed disturbing details. With her knowledge of previous burglary cases and the modus operandi used in such crimes, the scene did not appear to be a house burglary.

René’s body was discovered partially concealed in a bag in an outside room at her residence, while Werner was missing.

The case was changed from a missing persons investigation to murder, while Werner was nowhere to be found.

With items missing from the home, Mahlangu’s first instinct was to enquire at pawnshops. Her first pawnshop enquiry led to information and a description of Werner after he had pawned the items.

A 72-hour manhunt was launched, and a description of Werner as the suspect was issued. His details were published widely, including through Interpol.

Werner, who matched the description, was arrested in Mozambique and extradited to South Africa.

“He was arrested within four days of fleeing the country. This case was on every social media. It was stressful, but because I have confidence in my investigation and followed the procedures, it went smoothly,” said Mahlangu.

“And also the family. Despite what happened and the pain of the loss, they stayed strong. Their strength gave me strength to carry on and bring them justice,” said Mahlangu.

Mahlangu is exposed to numerous domestic violence cases and handles victims who are often in vulnerable situations.

“Domestic violence cases are very sensitive. The victims come here to get help,” explained Mahlangu.

Her message to those committing domestic violence and murder is to “repent”.

“I will get you,” said Mahlangu.

She encourages women to report domestic violence.

“It’s never too late to make a change. Come make a report, and we will investigate. One slap is enough and should not be repeated for you to take a step,” said Mahlangu.

She said that one slap could lead to a punch and then potentially to murder.

“We have cases where the victims withdraw the case. However, under the amended Domestic Violence Act, the state can continue pursuing a criminal case even if the victim wishes to retract or withdraw their statement,” said Mahlangu.

Having to juggle motherhood with being a detective exposed to serious crimes has its challenges, particularly when it comes to separating work from family life.

This was especially difficult with the Müller case. However, Mahlangu said SAPS offers counselling and debriefing sessions to help officers relieve and process those emotions.

“All the victims and families want answers. You must know how to separate your work through discipline.

“This award means a lot as it shows my hard work and gives me recognition. It gives me the ability to do this and follow my calling.

“I encourage other women to follow their dreams. For as long as you get up and are still breathing, nothing is impossible,” said Mahlangu.

She thanked SAPS management, Colonel Vena Sigo (station commander), Colonel Solly Msibi (detective branch commander), Captain Mfula Jungle Mokoena, and Sergeant Skelem Bongani Mabaso for their grooming, guidance, and support.

“My faith plays a huge role. Without God I would not be here. I put my trust in Him,” concluded Mahlangu.