Colonel Memela bids farewell to police service
He is also a qualified fingerprint expert and the horrific scenes he visited in the past are but a blur in his memory.
When one door closes, another one opens. This is true for Lieutenant Colonel Bongani Welcome Memela of Port Shepstone Saps.
He closes the door on 36 years of loyal service to the Saps and is greatly anticipating his retirement to do the things he loves such as gardening, getting involved in community projects and most of all spending quality time with his lovely family.
Colonel Memela served initially at Hillbrow, Empangeni and Hillcrest before transferring to the Ugu District where he worked at various police stations before being placed at Saps Port Shepstone as Crime Prevention Commander.
He is also a qualified fingerprint expert and the horrific scenes he visited in the past are but a blur in his memory. His second name, Welcome, describes this small statured, unassuming man well. His welcoming and open door policy of management enabled all kinds of people to seek his help, both at work and at home in the community.
Various training courses, mentorship programmes from senior managers and on the job experience ensured that he was more than able to fulfill his mandate to serve the public.
Over the years he also received numerous medals and commendations for his constant dedication and unwavering commitment to delivering the highest level of service.
Police spokesperson Captain Petros Mpinge said a well organised and memorable function was recently held at Umthunzi Lodge to honour Colonel Memela. This occasion was used to wish him a happy and healthy retirement and to thank him for his selfless and patriotic actions which are deeply appreciated by the organisation. Colleagues described him as a commander of integrity and humility, and yet tactful and extremely witty.
In his speech, Colonel Memela admitted that growing up as a farm boy in Umtwalume and remembering your roots and honouring your parents has helped him to remain humble and grateful. Colonel Memela will be missed by his Saps family, especially the members who worked so closely with him and who have formed strong bonds of friendship over the years.
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