VEREENIGING.- The funeral service of Brigadier Ben Ditlhakanyane was held at the Vereeniging Civic Hall on Saturday.

Family, friends and colleagues gathered to honour, Ditlhakanyane who was described as a dedicated servant of the South African Police Service (SAPS).

Ditlhakanyane, a born and bred resident of the Vaal, died last Saturday following a collision between his private vehicle and a truck on the R57.

Among those present are the Divisional Commissioner of Protection and Security Services, Lieutenant General Michael Motlhala, and the Component Head for Presidential Protection Services, Major General Wally Rhoode.

Brigadier Ditlhakanyane joined the SAPS in 1995 and dedicated more than three decades to the protection of the highest offices of our democratic government.

He served through successive administrations, working with former Presidents Nelson Mandela, Thabo Mbeki, Kgalema Motlanthe and Jacob Zuma, as well as with current President, Cyril Ramaphosa.

The SAPS said that as Section Head responsible for Global Coordination and Standards within Presidential Protection Services, Brigadier Ditlhakanyane played a critical role behind the scenes in coordinating the protection of the President during international travel and major events.

“His expertise contributed to the successful hosting of major international gatherings, including the 46th SADC Summit, the G20 Summit and the 15th BRICS Summit. Much of his work was unseen by the public. Behind every presidential journey and major international event were long hours of meticulous planning, coordination and dedication. Brigadier Ditlhakanyane carried out this responsibility quietly, professionally and with great commitment.”