VANDERBIJLPARK – A proud local police officer has won many awards, boasting with 14 years of experience under her belt.

From winning multiple Woman of the Year awards in Sedibeng District SAPS’ excellence awards in 2021/2022 and Woman of the Year in Gauteng 2018/2019, she continues to climb the ranks.

Now, the dedicated police officer has had the opportunity to join one of the busiest task teams in the province.

Sergeant Mapaseka Maketekete has joined a group of men and women in blue who deal with the seizure of counterfeit products across Gauteng.

Speaking to Sedibeng Ster, Maketekete explained what their team is working on.

“Our team is focused on seizing all sorts of counterfeit goods in Gauteng. We usually work with other organisations such as Brand Protectors, ICASA, SAPRA among others,” she said.

“The National task team was established last year around November. Now the unitsare established in provincial organisations, hence we were selected to work and form part of the Gauteng unit,” she added.

Sharing her excitement about her new role, Maketekete minced no words and expressed her inner joy.

“I am excited to be part of the team. As a dedicated police officer, every opportunity that comes along I grab with both hands. Growth means a lot for me, especially in SAPS,” she said.

Taking her job seriously and bringing about justice, Maketeke said she plans to continue her calling to end crime.

“I did not hesitate to join the team after I received a call from the provincial office with the intention of making a difference in my province by reducing crime and making sure perpetrators are brought to justice,” she said.

In her law enforcement career, Maketekete started working at De Deur as an officer.

She later became a spokesperson for several police stations including  Boipatong.

She also filled a position in Social Crime Prevention and is a sign language coordinator at the provincial head office.