After more than four decades of committed service, SAPS Phoenix has bid farewell to one of its most respected officers, Captain Raymond Mungroo, who retired on 30 April after an impressive 41 years of unbroken service, including 28 years as a Captain.
Captain Mungroo’s journey into policing began long before he donned the SAPS uniform. Born and raised in Phoenix, he was deeply affected by the rise in crime and its impact on local youth in the 1980s. “I had a passion ever since my school days to pursue a career in law enforcement. Growing up in Phoenix, I witnessed firsthand how crime affected our community and knew I had to be part of the change,” said Captain Mungroo.
His official SAPS journey started in 1984 at Mount Edgecombe (White House) Police Station as a student constable. After completing basic training at Wentworth Police College, he was posted to Johannesburg Central for five years. From there, his career took him across several key postings, including Inanda SAPS (1991-1997), Durban Central (1997-1999), Durban South Area Commissioner’s Office (2000-2007), and SAPS Phoenix (2007-2025). One of the standout moments in Captain Mungroo’s career was his promotion to Commissioned Officer in 1997, a milestone that marked his steady rise through the ranks. He also faced considerable challenges, including helping to coordinate and manage the first democratic elections under high-pressure conditions in 1994, enforcing national Covid-19 regulations during the pandemic a few years ago, and maintaining law and order with limited resources during the 2021 unrest and looting in Phoenix and surrounding areas.
His philosophy as a leader has always been rooted in fairness, humility, and legal integrity. Reflecting on the source of his resilience, he credits his early mentors and ‘old school’ police training for preparing him to handle high-pressure situations and complex decisions. “They taught us to work within the law and to always stay disciplined under pressure,” said Captain Mungroo. His leadership as a Captain has been defined by service to others, a focus on community collaboration, and leading by example. His advice to young officers beginning their journey is, “Be positive and disciplined. Serve your community with pride, honesty, and dedication. Work alongside all role-players to ensure a safe community for all.”
Captain Mungroo would like to be remembered by his colleagues and the communities he served as someone who selflessly served the organisation and community—and made a difference. “I want to be remembered not only for the years I’ve served but for the values and integrity I brought to my role every day as a SAPS officer.” As he begins a well-earned retirement, Captain Mungroo said he had no immediate plans but looks forward to spending quality time with family and possibly travelling. Although he officially steps away from SAPS, his commitment to community safety remains strong. Having worked closely with various security partners and the Phoenix Community Policing Forum as a sector manager, he remains open to lending a helping hand. “Should I be requested to assist, I will gladly do so,” he said.
As he closes this chapter, Captain Mungroo leaves his colleagues with a heartfelt message: “I will definitely miss my colleagues. To those I leave behind—continue to perform your duties with commitment, dedication, and passion. Be disciplined and strive to make our communities a safer place to live in.”
The Phoenix SAPS thank Captain Mungroo for his dedication and wish him a happy, peaceful, and fulfilling retirement.
