SEDIBENG – From ditching an Information Technology career to joining SAPS, Constable Takalani Malala’s calling seems to be flourishing.
Sacrificing his family time to combat crime, Malala’s efforts have bore fruit.
Recently, the young cop scooped the SAPS Gauteng Provincial Man of the Year award.
Telling his story, Malala said his ten years of service seem to motivate him daily.
Speaking to Ster South, the dedicated officer tells his story.
“I started working in Sharpeville in 2005 when I first arrived in the force.
I was later assigned to work at CCTV monitoring offices and one day I felt that I had watched enough crime and opted to go to the streets and chase criminals,” he said.
The member of the Crime Prevention Unit at the district office says dedication makes him an active member.
Even during his off days, he remains on duty.
“I’m one of the active members who is always on duty to the extent that some of my colleagues do not know my shift schedule. When I get complaints at midnight I get up and help deal with them. We recover a lot of stolen goods. These are some crimes that members do not take into consideration but I put in my all,” he said.
“My activeness led me to even start a WhatsApp group where crimes are reported and they are attended to swiftly. I’m also in some of the community crime-related groups to make sure that positive results are delivered,” added Malala.
“This award motivates me to do more for the community. Policing is not only about arresting criminals but also grooming the community.”
Malala said he imparts his skills to youngsters to get them off the streets.
“We are raising a generation of monkey see, monkey do. I lead by example and make sure my efforts to take the youngsters from the streets are crucial.”
Relating on some of his career highlights, Malala said, “One morning I was jogging and came across a rape victim. I stopped and interviewed her and she detailed her story. I went home and took my car to look for the culprit. He was later arrested and justice was served for the young girl.”
Relaying his ambitions in the police department, Malala said he wants to go as far as fighting crime in higher ranks and units.
“I always want to do more. I wanted to be on the task force but age restricted me. Instead, I went and studied for TRT. I aim to clean the Vaal region and make it a safer place to live in,” he said.
Motivating aspiring cops, Malala said, “Young cops coming in should not listen to stories they hear. There are still dedicated cops and I am one of them. They should learn from the good cops.”
