VANDERBIJLPARK – Fezile Dabi District police honoured brave and dedicated men and women in blue on August 1.
During the 2024/2025 prestigious Excellence Award ceremony held at Meriting Events in Vanderbijlpark, scores of police officers, dressed in their finest attire, gathered to receive their awards.
Several high-profile police officials attended the event, including the Free State’s provincial commissioner, Lieutenant General Baile Motswenyane, and the District Commissioner, Major General Moses Makubo, among many other stakeholders.
Delivering a keynote address, Motswenyane applauded the recipients of the awards and motivated them to do more for the organisation.
“Your contribution in crime-fighting matters. Just do an introspection and check if you are good enough for this organisation. You must continue making the SAPS in Free State proud,” she said.
Motswenyane emphasised the importance of being dedicated even when not recognised through winning awards.
“If you feel like you are good at your job and not getting the necessary recognition, don’t ever be demoralised. Rather, give yourself a pat on the shoulder and continue being motivated. Stay focused on what you are called for,” she added.
Motswenyane applauded the district for its impact in the fight against crime and emphasised the importance of policing in partnership with communities, particularly in the fight against gender-based violence.
Sharing the purpose of the day, Makubo acknowledged and celebrated outstanding performance within the district, which has seen a decline in different serious crimes.
“We have seen a drastic reduction of serious crime in our district, especially those I found prevalent when I assumed the position of being a commissioner, like kidnappings, carjackings, vehicle theft, among many others.
This proves that women and men are working hard, and we want to thank them for supporting our vision,” he said.
Makubo thanked stakeholders who help in crime fighting, such as the Community Policing Forum, and the South Africa Free State Fujian Overseas Chinese Association, who donate immensely in making sure that crime is a thing of the past.
The highlight of the day was the Bravery Award presented to Constable M. Mhlambi, along with a laptop sponsored by Jimmy Shi of the Chinese Association.
Awards were presented in various categories, including Administration, Vispol and Operations, Specialised Units, and Station of the Year, which was awarded
to Tumahole SAPS. Confiscated gun and ammunition following a raid in Amelia.
Free State provincial commissioner Lieutenant General Baile Motswenyane and the District Commissioner, Major General Moses Makubo, following the keynote address.
