The South African Police in KwaZulu-Natal recently held its provincial excellence awards on Friday, 1 November, at the Durban ICC.
Spearheaded by KZN Police Commissioner Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, members were honoured with trophies and certificates for their performance in various categories. Awardees included groundsmen who go beyond their call of duty in serving the community, police reservists, and administrative staff.
A special recognition was given to the Hawks Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation Provincial Tracking Team, which includes members from Durban Metro.
General Mkhwanazi stated that these dedicated officers deserve a standing ovation for the hard work they do in the province, reducing crime rates, lowering the high rates of crime and murder, and successfully handling high-risk cases such as cash-in-transit heists.
“Their efforts have led to the neutralisation and apprehension of dangerous suspects wanted for serious and violent crimes across KwaZulu-Natal,” the Commissioner added.
Berea SAPS reservist Constable Gregory Albert expressed his honour in receiving an award from the Commissioner. Another award recipient, Nicholas Dubazane, a groundsman from Ladysmith SAPS, noted that his hard work and dedication have paid off.
Dubazane mentioned that he is responsible for keeping the station clean; however, he goes beyond his duties by driving a truck to service the community when needed. “I deliver water to the community when there is no water in our taps. I love my community, and I am willing to assist them in every way possible,” Dubazane added.
Dubazane was awarded Administration Employee of the Year, while Albert won Reservist of the Year. Warrant Officer Christopher Odayer won Medium Risk Vispol Officer of the Year in Level 5-7, Lieutenant Colonel Seeings from Durban Central SAPS won Admin Officer of the Year in Level 8-12, and Constable Sipho Mazibuko from Newcastle took Vispol Policing of the Year, just to mention a few.
The awards were a huge success and were graced by the presence of Provincial Premier Thami Ntuli. Ntuli committed to partnering with the Police Commissioner in the programme that supports the families of fallen SAPS members, stating that his office will provide financial support. He also congratulated all the award winners.
