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Port Shepstone Search and Rescue team shines at provincial awards

Ugu District Commissioner Major General Sethenya Nxamagele expressed her pride in the district’s achievements.

Once again, the dedicated Port Shepstone Search and Rescue unit has proven its calibre on the provincial stage.

The team was named runner-up in the Visible Policing (Vispol) and Operations Team of the Year category at the recent Saps KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Excellence Awards.

The glittering event was recently held at the Durban ICC, and saw top-performing police officers and units from across the province recognised for their outstanding service.

Representing the Port Shepstone Search and Rescue team were Constable Mlungisi Gumede, Warrant Officer Fafa Pretorius, Sergeant Mark Banjo, and Warrant Officer Gawie Nel.

Ugu District Commissioner Major General Sethenya Nxamagele congratulated the team on their hard work and dedication.

The annual awards celebrate officers who go beyond the call of duty, demonstrating exceptional policing and commitment to keeping communities safe.

Speaking after the event, Nxamagele expressed her pride in the district’s achievements.

“It is always encouraging to see our teams receive the recognition they deserve. This motivates all our officers to continue serving with excellence,” she said.

The Port Shepstone Search and Rescue team is highly respected on the South Coast for its swift response and bravery in life-threatening situations.

Their recognition at this level reflects not only their skills but also their passion for saving lives.

Colonel Ntombizanele Rejoice Mzotho from Margate Saps was awarded Vispol and Operations Employee of the Year in the Level 8 – 12 category.

Mzotho’s commitment to visible policing and operational excellence earned her this top honour. She alternates with Colonel David Nala as Acting Station Commander, and the award is in recognition of the role she plays, especially as a woman, in curbing crime and ensuring optimum visible policing in the popular holiday destination of Margate.

Also recognised, was the Port Shepstone Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences (FCS) team, led by Lieutenant Colonel Anjalaydevi Pillay.

FCS Port Shepstone plays a lead role in obtaining justice for victims of family violence and sexually related crimes in the Ugu District and creates an atmosphere of protection and care in their numerous outreach programmes conducted in vulnerable communities.

A proud Lieutenant Colonel Anjalaydevi Pillay with the Port Shepstone FCS team.

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