A police officer with heart of gold was lauded for her compassion when she strapped an abandoned toddler to her back and continued with her duties while she awaited a response from social workers in the wake of the mother’s disappearance.
Sergeant Silindile Masondo has been recognised and acknowledged by the Minister of Social Development (DSD), Lindiwe Zulu and the KwaZulu-Natal Social Development MEC, Nonhlanhla Khoza, for her extraordinary service in saving the life of the abandoned toddler.
The act was deemed “a commendable display of humanity and dedication to duty”.
It is alleged that the mother dumped the child following her request to the police officer to look after the child while she had goes to the restroom.
According to DSD, Sgt Masondo exhibited exceptional compassion and professionalism when she intervened to rescue the toddler abandoned by her mother at the Ntuzuma Community Service Centre.
“Acting swiftly and decisively, Sergeant Masondo’s quick thinking and selflessness undoubtedly saved the vulnerable child’s life. She was seen caring for the child on her back while working,” KZN DSD said.
“Sergeant Masondo’s heroic act exemplifies the values of empathy and service that are at the core of our mission in the Department of Social Development. We commend her for her selflessness and dedication to protecting the most vulnerable members of our society,” Minister Zulu said.
Sgt Masondo went the extra mile by buying food, nappies and clothes for the child in need.
“This child was dumped while commemorating Child Protection Month. The police officer made it a point that the life of the child was saved and we are happy that she is alive and safe in our centre,” Minister Zulu added.
MEC Khoza echoed Minister Zulu’s sentiments, emphasising the importance of recognising and celebrating acts of kindness and bravery within our communities.
“Sergeant Masondo’s actions serve as a shining example of the positive impact that individuals can have when they show kindness and compassion towards others. We are immensely proud of her and grateful for her service. We want more people like her in our society,” she said.
Sergeant Masondo’s courageous and compassionate intervention serves as a reminder of the critical role that law enforcement officers play in safeguarding the well-being of all members of society. MEC Khoza said her (Sgt Masondo’s) actions are a testament to the power of empathy and humanity in creating safer and more caring communities for all. Minister Zulu shared a token of appreciation to Sergeant Masondo and asked her to continue to be a shining light to society.
Meanwhile, Sgt Masondo and the FCS unit successfully tracked down the mother of the child and charged her with child abandonment.
The woman claimed she had ‘problems’ and was placed in police custody. She is to appear in the Ntuzuma Magistrate’s Court.
