Police captains passion for service births a career of purpose

Captain Bridget Kgomotso Dladla recently received a certificate of recognition for best employee in the finance office at Bramley Police Station.

This was more than recognition for her; it was a representation of nearly 30 years in the force, serving the community diligently. Dladla, who joined the South African Police Service in 1998, was recognised during a certificate presentation ceremony at the station for her commitment and service.

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“It means a lot. In terms of my experience, I’ve been waiting for this for a very long time. It’s a privilege for me to receive that from my station commander. It shows the resilience and the hard work that I’m putting in is recognised.”

As part of her role, Dladla also makes sure that members of the community who visit the police station are assisted accordingly. Reflecting on her journey as a woman in policing, ahead of women’s month, Dladla said times have really changed, compared to how things were when she joined the force.

“Being a woman in the SAPS, I can just say that’s a blessing from God. When it comes to us as females in the SAPS, our management has recognised most of us. We have been given opportunities in terms of promotions and opportunities to attend to complaints from female community members. Now, it’s improved a lot.”

She added that they will be partaking in the Operation Basadi initiative during women’s month, where they will be out in the streets demonstrating the important role that women play in policing. As part of this operation, they will also be letting residents know that female officers are always there to assist in matters where they would feel comfortable speaking to another woman.

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Dladla encouraged all women to explore the many career opportunities available within SAPS.

“We’ve got many opportunities in the SAPS. Like myself, I’m a senior state accountant. We’ve got lawyers and engineers, among others. We’ve got a lot of opportunities. All the opportunities are here in SAPS. All the ladies, when the posts come out, please apply. We need you, so that we can be represented as women in blue.”

Her message to women this women’s month is to remain aware of their surroundings, report crime, and never be afraid to speak up.

“Please take care of yourself. Make sure that you guard against any issue. Make sure that anything that is happening, be alert. Tell the police, call us; we are here for you. Don’t hide. In any situation, we are here for you.

Don’t be scared to come out. Work with us. Give us any information as women, so that we can stand against all crime which is happening amongst our community in Bramley.”

Women’s month is all about celebrating women’s achievements, addressing gender inequality head-on, and honouring women’s historical resilience, and Dladla is a true representation of such a woman.

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