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APRIL 2021 | FREE

POLICEYOUR OFFICIAL FREE SAPS MAGAZINE

#Selfless&PatrioticServiceO N A J O U R N E Y T O A S A F E R S O U T H A F R I C A

CRIME AWARENESS

01

POLICEThe POLICE magazine is published by the Publications and Broadcast Section of Corporate Communication.

ACTING HEAD: CORPORATE COMMUNICATION Brig Vishnu Naidoo

SUB-SECTION HEAD: INTERNAL PUBLICATIONS Col Linda van den Berg 012 393 7075

SUBEDITOR Lt Col Fundiswa Maphanga 012 393 7104

JOURNALISTS: Lt Col Erica Holtzhausen 012 393 7106

Capt Keitumetse Mmushi 012 393 7138

Capt Vincent Mukhathi 012 393 7088

Capt Kgabo Mashamaite 012 393 7151

Capt Ndanduleni Nyambeni 012 393 7279

WO Percy Sepaela 012 393 7108

LAYOUT WO Henk Venter

COVER SAPS Eastern Cape

LANGUAGE EDITING BY: Lt Col Ilze-Mari Visagie

SAPS POLICE ONLINE: Lt Col Johan Heüer 012 393 7030 [email protected]

REPUBLISHING Permission to republish articles contained in the POLICE may be obtained from the Head: Corporate Communication. The opinions expressed in the POLICE are not necessarily those of the Head: Corporate Communication, his staff or of the POLICE authorities.

INDEMNITY Contributions, photographs and other material sent to the POLICE for publication must be accompanied by a stamped and self-addressed envelope. Contributions are returned at the risk of the contributor. The POLICE reserves the right to effect changes to any contribution.

COPYRIGHT POLICE Copyright reserved

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@ SAPoliceService

South African Police Service (SAPS Official Page)

02 National Commissioner’s Message

03 Minister visits Cape Town

04 Ministerial Imbizos

08 Ortia - Tactical Training Course

10 Off-Duty Police Officer arrests suspect 11 Dedicated Detective puts murderers behind bars 12 EHW

14 Flash News

16 SAPS & SARS cracks down on counterfeiting

17 Medal Parade

18 Research Roadshow

20 SAPS Pocketbook - Part 1 21 Missing Persons

22 Wanted Persons

South Africa celebrated

Freedom Day on 27 April in commemo-ration of the first democratic elections that saw the abolishment

of apartheid in the country in 1994. A year later, the South African Police Force was demilitarised and changed to a more community-orientated South African Police Service in 1995.

Since then, the SAPS has been working tirelessly to build and maintain good community-police relations. Most recently, the Deputy Minister of Police, Mr Cassel Mathale, led a delegation of deputy ministers from sister departments and members of the SAPS at two imbizos in Jouberton and Hammanskraal. Read about the crime issues raised by the community and the joint solution reached by the community and the police on pages four to seven.

Our policemen and policewomen have not let the Covid-19 pandemic we are contending with, stop them from executing their Constitutional mandate to serve and protect, and have achieved many successes – even going beyond the call of duty. Sterling examples are D/Sgt Mokete Motsoai of the Kagisanong Detective Unit, whose excellent investigative work resulted

in several murderers being sentenced to 73 years’ imprisonment in just a space of three months (p 11), while WO George ‘Frikkie’ Vermaak apprehended a burglar while off duty.

The organisation is continuously working on improving service delivery in multi-faceted ways. One way is ensuring that all our members are operationally ready so that they can effectively execute their duties. Recently, the skills of the members at the ports of entry were improved by them undergoing a Border Policing Reaction Team Basic Training Course. The OR Tambo Airport team did the SAPS proud as all of its members successfully completed the course. Read how one of the members experienced the course, and what the course entails, on pages eight and nine.

Another way of ensuring our members work optimally, is by refreshing their knowledge and supplying them with reader-friendly updates on policies pertaining to their job. We will, in the next few months, publish a series of short articles detailing the revised policy on pocketbooks, National Instruction 2 of 2021, in the hope that this will assist members to become up to date with any pertinent changes (p 21).

Let us all equip ourselves with the necessary skills and knowledge so that we can better serve our communities and create a safer country for all.

Brigadier V Naidoo

CONTENTS

POLICEAPRIL 202102 03POLICE APRIL 2021

O N A J O U R N E Y TO A S A F E R S O U T H A F R I C A #FightingCrime

NATIONAL COMMISSIONER’S MESSAGEGENERAL KHEHLA JOHN SITOLE

systematic causes of violence, crime and public protests; reviewing and developing training curricula for police officers and policy pertaining to human rights; as well as creating awareness among the public and police officers on issues of human rights.

We are aware that the duties of police officers are quite gruelling and that our policemen and policewomen are confronted with life-threatening situations daily, however, they are trained to deal with such situations. Our men and women in blue know they may only use the minimum force necessary to defend human life, effect arrests, and contain violent situations, and that they must always act in accordance with the laws of our country.

To improve our policing, particularly our crowd control response, we are reviewing our Public Order Policing processes and procedures as recommended by the Farlam Commission. The majority of the recommendations such as the assurance that no automatic rifles may be used in crowd control management, have been incorporated into the SAPS’s Act Amendment Bill. The Bill has already been through a round of public comments and these inputs are being considered and concluded before it is tabled in Parliament.

Women’s rights, in particular, are severely infringed upon in the country. The scourge of abuse against women and femicide in the country, are appalling. We continue to do all we can to end gender-based violence and this includes ensuring that the perpetrators are convicted and sentenced harshly. The Family Violence and Sexual Offences Unit has been doing sterling work in this regard, with the detectives securing the conviction of 1 733 accused and 356 sentences of life imprisonment for 266 perpetrators. While these convictions do not bring back the women who lost their lives at the hands of these callous cowards, we believe that these sentences will deter other potential perpetrators.

Our preoccupation with the protection of human life, is for the protection of ALL lives, therefore the protection of the lives of our men and women in blue is also of the utmost importance to the management of the SAPS. It is you, our patriotic and selfless police officers who make the organisation what it is – your hard work, sacrifices and dedication to the safety and security of the nation do not go unnoticed. The country needs brave men and women who are willing to put their lives at risk for the greater good.

However, we urge all our police officers to not unnecessarily compromise their safety while executing their duties. With the alarming rate of police murders, we urge all our police members to be extra vigilant, both on and off duty. Ensure that you are operationally ready. This means having all the tools of your trade in good working order, being physically fit, as well as ensuring your mental fitness by attending refresher courses and seeking support and help from our Employee Health and Wellness Directorate when you need it.

We envisage that the measures we have taken to improve the efficacy of the organisation – with the buy-in of our police officers – will culminate in a country where all people are safe and live freely, within the ambit of the law.

“Human rights cannot be separated from national security, and the abuse thereof has an impact on national security.”

The nation celebrated the month of April as Freedom Month in commemoration of 27 April, Freedom Day, which marks the anniversary of the country’s first democratic elections that formalised the abolishment of apartheid in 1994. This day was a momentous, life-changing event as people of all races were – for the first time – able to have a say in what happened in the country by voting for the first time, and voting for democracy where all people would have basic human rights.

Human rights cannot be separated from national security, and the abuse thereof has an impact on national security. It is important that members of the SAPS, as custodians of South Africa’s security, understand, observe, and protect human rights. This is embedded in our organisation’s Code of Ethics, which, among other things, dictates that all police officials must obey the law and respect diversity. We can, therefore, not infringe on the very rights we are meant to protect, nor discriminate against people because of race, sexuality, nationality, language or anything else. We must fulfil our Constitutional mandate to ensure law and order, and create a safe country where all people are able to enjoy their basic human rights as enshrined in Chapter 2 of the Constitution.

As we focus on a community-orientated approach to policing, continuously engage with strategic partners to seek tangible solutions to improve service delivery. One such endeavour was entering into a Memorandum of Understanding with the South African Human Rights Association. This MoU aimed at fostering a human rights approach to policing by identifying underlying and

Police Minister Cele addressing members on parade in the Western Cape.

VISITS CAPE TOWN “The Minister of Police, General Bheki Cele,

and the Deputy National Commissioner for Policing, Lt Gen Masemola, joined the management of the SAPS in the Western Cape in operations aimed at flushing out criminality in all its manifestations.

On his fourth day in the province, Minister Cele addressed over 200 police officers seconded to violence hotspots in the Western Cape before they headed out to continue their high visibility operations. He commended their efforts, saying they had already achieved good results with the seizure of illegal firearms and ammunition, but reminded them that a lot more work still had to be done, especially in the quest to clamp down on contact crimes and to protect women and children in communities.

POLICE MINISTER

Members seconded to Western Cape to deal with gangsterism receiving orders.


IMBIZO

TO CURB CRIME IN JOUBERTON

In an effort to create a safe and secure environment for all, the Deputy Minister of

Police, Mr Cassel Mathale, led a Ministerial Imbizo at the Matlosana Stadium in Jouberton on 17 April 2021.

The imbizo aimed at mobilising the community and other stakeholders’ participation in combating gangsterism and crime, as well as restoring peace and stability in the area.The Jouberton community was engulfed by gang violence between Fe bruary and March 2021 when two opposing gangs, Boko Haram and Al Qaeda, were fighting. During

By Capt Vincent Mukhathi Photographs by Capt Anne Magakoe

the violence, vehicles were burnt or damaged, at least 12 houses were torched, and a group of gang members stormed the Jouberton Police Station accusing the police of working with the rival gangs in the area.

Deputy Minister Mathale, the Premier of the North West, Professor Job Mokgoro, the Deputy National Commissioner for Policing, Lt Gen Fannie Masemola, and the management of the SAPS in the North West, led by Lt Gen Sello Kwena, listened attentively to various community structures and members of the public as they raised concerns regarding crime.

Among the issues that the community raised were the high levels of crime such as gangsterism, gender-based violence, truck hijackings, stock theft, taxi violence, as well as other prevalent contact rimes that were affecting their daily lives and well-being.

Community members proposed that a meeting to address gangsterism and crime in general, be held in the near future. They envisaged that such a meeting would address gang violence and provide sustainable solutions to crime in the area.

Responding to policing concerns relating to gang violence that erupted in Jouberton, Lt Gen Kwena highlighted that the province had established two task teams to focus on gangsterism, the proliferation of drugs, as well as the restoration of peace and stability in Jouberton and the surrounding areas.

“The task team responsible for gangsterism has already arrested 28 suspects – from both the Boko Haram and Al Qaeda gangs – and seized three illegal firearms at a local guesthouse. We have opened 42 cases against the gang members, including 12 cases of arson for the houses they had burned, eight attempted murder cases and three cases of murder. All these case are still at court,” said Lt Gen Kwena.

Lt Gen Kwena also promised the community that their requested meeting would soon become a reality, and that the outcomes would be submitted to the offices of Premier Mokgoro and Deputy Minister Mathale for approval and implementation.

Lt Gen Masemola told the public that additional members from Head Office would be deployed to fight gangsterism and crime in Jouberton. “We cannot, as police, co-exist with criminals…We will send a team to evaluate the performance of the station because as the SAPS, we are here to provide a service to the community as mandated by the Constitution,” he said.

Emphasising the importance of the community playing a role in combating crime, Lt Gen Masemola urged community members to report police officials who gave them a negative attitude when they reported cases. He promised that complaints against those members would be investigated and that serious steps would be taken against them.

In his remarks, Premier Mokgoro urged the police, local municipalities, government departments and community leaders to play their part, do more, and find sustainable solutions to resolve the problems of crime and gangsterism.

Emphasising the need for good community-police relations in order to effectively fight crime , Deputy Minister Mathale said: “The solutions for the problems you have, are with you.

MINISTERIAL IMBIZO HELD We have heard your concerns and we are here to work with you to fight crime. However, it is us, the community, who have enabled the existence of gangs and it is within us to end their existence. We cannot have a part of South Africa where people do what they like, including going to the police station. It cannot be allowed to continue, it must stop and we will stop it together.”

Deputy Minister Mathale also warned corrupt officials, saying, “Those who believe that [they can do as they please] cannot continue to wear the blue uniform. That uniform will soon change to an orange uniform. If they do things they know to be illegal, they deserve to be in prison.”

Lt Gen Masemola and Lt Gen Kwena were tasked with resolving all pending cases that were raised by the community, as well as schedule a feedback meeting with the community soon.

Lt Gen Kwena addressing the concerns of Jouberton community members at the Ministerial Imbizo.

Deputy Police Minister Mathale promising Jouberton community members that change is coming.


Deputy Police Minister Mathale and his entourage at the Hammanskraal Imbizo.

IMBIZO

HAMMANSKRAAL

As part of government’s efforts to strengthen police-community relations, the Deputy

Minister of Police, Mr Cassel Mathale, led a Ministerial Imbizo at Hammanskraal on 24 May 2021.

Deputy Minister Mathale and his counterparts, the Deputy Minister of Small Business Development, Ms Nokuzola Capa, as well as the Deputy Minister of Employment and Labour Relations, Ms Boitumelo Moloi; the Gauteng MEC for Community Safety, Ms Faith Mazibuko; and the SAPS’s top

By Capt Vincent Mukhathi Photographs by Capt Ndanduleni Nyambeni

DEPUTY POLICE MINISTER VISITS

management engaged with the Hammanskraal community and representatives from various organisations regarding social ills and crimes that were affecting residents daily.

Residents and representatives raised concerns about crimes such as poaching, land invasion, school vandalism, drug dealing, corrupt police officials, as well as the high level of contact crime, including bullying, that were affecting their livelihood and social lives daily. Community members also called on the police to conduct more operations in Hammanskraal and the surrounding areas in order to combat crime.

In her message of support, the Speaker of the City of Tshwane’s Council, Ms Katlego Mathebe, urged community members to participate in crime prevention initiatives in their communities and the surrounding areas. “Crime prevention will not be successful if members of the community do not play their part in crime-fighting initiatives. We should be committed to reducing crime, as well as changing our attitude and conduct toward [buying/selling] stolen goods,” she said.

Responding to the community’s concerns, the Provincial Commissioner of the SAPS in Gauteng, Lt Gen Elias Mawela, told residents that they were going to formulate an action plan that would clearly outline how and when they would respond to crime challenges. He also said that they would conduct more operations in accordance with legislative frameworks and requests from the community.

Lt Gen Mawela asked the community to also play their part in the fight against crime. “We call upon all of you to be our eyes and ears here in Hammanskraal and identify problematic areas. We will ensure that we visit those areas to deal with criminal elements,” he said.

Addressing concerns about corrupt police officials, Lt Gen Mawela warned police officials who were involved in criminal activities and modifying cases, that they would be shown the door. “We have no space for corrupt police on our payroll. We will not transfer them elsewhere or rotate them. We will remove them from the SAPS’s payroll,” said Lt Gen Mawela.

Regarding the issue of lazy police officials at police stations, Lt Gen Mawela told the residents to report such officials. “Identify those lazy police officers and please take videos and photos of them and post them on social media. We have a team in the SAPS that continuously monitors the social

media space. Identify those who continue to tarnish our good name and we will deal with them accordingly,” he said.

Echoing the same sentiments, the Head of the Rapid Rail and Police Emergency Services, Lt Gen Michael Mohlala, stressed that the SAPS would not tolerate lazy and corrupt police officials within its ranks. “As the SAPS’s management, our approach is very clear. There is no room for corruption and lazy police officers. Police officers who are not doing their job will face disciplinary processes. Anyone committing serious misconduct will be dismissed from the organisation. We will not pick and choose, whether you are a senior or junior officer, you will account for your actions,” he said.

In his address, Deputy Minister Mathale warned police officials who were conspiring with drug dealers that they would face the full might of the law. “The issue of police officers using State vehicles to deliver drugs, must come to an end. Anybody found to abuse State vehicles must immediately be reported. They will wear the orange uniform they deserve – not the dignified blue uniform. Those who have evidence of State vehicles being used to commit crime, please come forward so that we can deal with criminality within the SAPS without fear or favour,” he said.

Deputy Minister Mathale also called on residents to stop taking the law into their own hands. “Nobody has a licence to commit mob justice in the name of fighting crime. If you find a suspect committing crime, take him or her to the police. Do not take the law into your own hands. Be law-abiding citizens,” he implored the Hammanskraal community.

Deputy Police Minister Mathale urging the Hammanskraal community to join hands with the SAPS in crime fighting.

The Hammanskraal community and SAPS listening to officials.


AT TACTICAL TRAINING COURSE

Police officials of the OR Tambo International Airport (ORTIA) underwent a gruelling

Border Policing Reaction Team Basic Training Course and every single member successfully completed it.

Border Policing Reaction Teams (BPRT) were established to perform duties that fall outside the scope of generic policing functions. BPRT members are trained and equipped to effectively deal with high risk situations. Purpose of BPRT

Members must provide a tactical response, tactical operational support and tactical intervention capacity to address confirmed medium and high-risk crime threats

By WO Valery Govender

OR TAMBO MEMBERS SHINE

ORTIA

in the border policing environment. Members who are interested in joining the BPRT, apply voluntarily and then commence with the selection and training cycle.

Training Cycle 1) Preparation and conditioning (Prepcon): Two weeks of preparation and conditioning Three days selection and endurance testing (‘Vasbyt’)

2) Members who successfully complete the Prepcon, are accepted into the training cycle which consists of three-week long training categories set out in phases:

a) Phase One: Weapons Phase b) Phase Two: Rural Phase c) Phase Three: Urban Phase

Members must successfully complete Phase One before they can progress to Phase Two and likewise successfully complete Phase Two to progress to Phase Three. The pilot course was presented in 2019 and highlighted a few shortcomings, which led to changes in the programme. In 2020 a formalised Prepcon and ‘Vasbyt’ selection phase were added to the programme to prepare candidates, and then test them in a number of ways for suitability to become part of the BPRT. So far, the successful members have only completed their basic training . The ORTIA, Border Policing and Human Resources Development Management will be undergoing next-level training, which includes advanced, specialised and leadership training.

Members will be trained in, among other things:

• Surveillance and counter-surveillance techniques• High-speed Driving• Identification of Explosives• Parts of the Special Task Force curriculum dealing with

mall attacks, as well as the BPRT role and functions in aircraft hijackings

• Dedicated Marksmanship• Medical training to assist paramedics at a mass

casualty scene. Detailing her experiences during the course, a female member of the ORTIA said that the course had been physically strenuous because her body was not accustomed to the high levels of strain endured during the course. They worked the entire day with hardly any rest. She said that her being slim allowed her to cope and that the week-long preparation prior to going on the course had helped her

immensely, but recommended that people who want to undergo the course keep fit for much longer than a week before they attend it Asked which phase was the most difficult, she replied that it was most definitely the rural phase, but said that it became better as she gained mental and physical strength to cope with the physical demands – physical training commenced at 05:00 and was gruesome throughout the day. She said that the trainers were strict, but humane, and emphatically stated that she was not favoured in any way and was expected to perform at the same level as the men. She said the trainers respected her as a woman, but did not go easy on her in respect of the training.

She added that her fellow students were very supportive, always helping and motivating her not to give up. “They were amazing, I could not have come this far without their support. They treated me with much respect and acknowledged me as part of their team. Their good spirit and humour certainly made all the difference,” she said. Her advice to other women embarking on the tactical course was: “Keep your head high, stay strong, never give up and stay focused on the goal of completion. Look at yourself as an equal on the course. Do not feel inferior to the men. Build a strong mental state before embarking on this course. It is up to each woman to be committed and strong-willed in order to see each day through. I am glad to have been given this opportunity to prove that a woman can be just as strong as a man can be.”

Members of the OR Tambo Port of Entry at the training centre.

A member of the ORTIA team receiving his accolades for completing the course.


ARRESTS HOUSEBREAKING SUSPECT

When a community is aware that a law enforcement officer is living among them,

they entrust their safety to such a policeman or policewoman, therefore a police official is never off duty. This is exactly what happened in Bluewater Bay when WO George ‘Frikkie’ Vermaak was off duty, and was driving on the N2 when at about 10:00, he got a frantic call from his neighbour, Mr Ray Marsh, who informed him that an unknown male had just confronted his wife. The intruder had jumped over the boundary wall and was moving between Maureen Circle and Riverside Drive. WO Vermaak, who is attached to the Nelson Mandela Bay Operational Command Centre, immediately turned around and headed back to Bluewater Bay to assist his neighbour. The area was thoroughly searched, but the suspect could not be found.

At about 11:00, Mr Marsh once again phoned WO Vermaak and informed him that he had heard a woman screaming at the back of his house. Both Mr Marsh and WO Vermaak headed in the direction of the screams, but still could not find anything. However, as WO Vermaak was standing in a yard in Riverside Road, he heard a noise in the garage and peeped inside. He saw a man trying to jump through the window. The description of the clothing matched the one given to him earlier that morning. As the suspect climbed

OFF DUTY POLICE OFFICER

through the window, WO Vermaak tackled him and in the scuffle that ensued, WO Vermaak felt a hot sensation in his back – he had been stabbed. The suspect managed to wrestle free and ran straight into Mr Marsh. Both Mr Marsh and WO Vermaak wrestled with the suspect once again. After some time, they managed to get the knife from him. When a private security officer arrived, the suspect was handcuffed.

It was confirmed that the suspect had broken into a house in Riverside Road. He was found in his possession of jewellery to the approximate value of R10 000.

The suspect’s name is Mangaliso Mzileni (30), and he was detained on charges of housebreaking and attempted murder. He is now attending court processes.

WO Vermaak received 12 stitches on his back. The Acting Mount Road Cluster Commander, Brig Thandiswa Kupiso, commended both WO Vermaak and the civilian, Mr Ray Marsh, for their bravery and swift response to the situation.

“Traits such as integrity and bravery are what make a police official earn the trust and confidence of the community. The conduct of both men is commendable as they risked their lives to make sure that the criminal was apprehended,” said Brig Kupiso.

By Col Priscilla Naidu

Mr Ray MarshWO George ‘Frikkie’ Vermaak

DEDICATED DETECTIVE PUTS MURDERERS BEHIND BARSBy WO Loraine Earle

D/Sgt Mokete Motsoai of the Kagisanong Detective Unit is a force to be reckoned

with when taking a criminal case to court. Even the Covid-19 pandemic and having been admitted to ICU after contracting the virus did not deter Sgt Motsoai from putting in a lot of hard work, which helped secure a cumulative 73 years’ imprisonment for suspects who were all sentenced within a three-month period for murders that were perpetrated in separate incidents. Sgt Motsoai ensured the conviction of a man who killed his girlfriend because she wanted to leave him. The convict, Thabo Motseki (40) met his girlfriend, Motshidisi Tlatsa (41), at the Shoprite complex in Rocklands on 21 June 2019. He shot and killed her in full view of the public. Sgt Motsoai’s hard work led to Motseki being sentenced to 25 years’ imprisonment for premeditated murder.

Another murderer, Sechaba Moiloa (29), was sentenced to 21 years’ imprisonment for killing Poloko Motlohi (27) on the morning of 24 February 2019. Moiloa and Motlohi were at a drinking place in Caleb Motshabi in Mangaung, when they got into a squabble, which ended with Moiloa shooting at Motlohi, who succumbed to his five gunshot wounds. Moiloa fled the scene, but, after an intensive investigation, Sgt Motsoai, traced the convict who was already behind bars at the Odendaalsrus Correctional Centre for a murder committed in Bronville. A ballistic report linked the Bronville case to Sgt Motsoai’s case. This crucial evidence and eyewitnesses confirming Moiloa as the murderer, sealed his fate.

In February 2021, Sgt Motsoai secured two convictions in the Bloemfontein Magistrates’ Court. One of the cases was that of a BTK gang member, who had killed a member of a rival gang, the Romans, for insulting him. Letshego Brophy (26) stabbed Thabang Sekoena (25) to death after a chance encounter on 2 February 2020. Sekoena died in hospital a few days after the stabbing. Sgt Motsoai had to investigate a scene without a murder weapon, and a case in which people did not want to become involved for fear of retaliation from gang members. Despite all of this, Sgt Motsoai pulled out all the stops and secured a sentence of 15 years’ imprisonment for Sekoena.

The last case involved Muso Monele (25), who was sentenced to 12 years’ imprisonment for killing Itumeleng Rakobo (33). On 24 August 2020, Monele went to Rakobo’s

house looking for his girlfriend, whom he found in Rakobo’s bed. Monele then stabbed Rakobo to death, but Monele was speedily convicted and sentenced for his evil actions within six months of the murder.

These are just the highlights of the successes that Sgt Motsoai has garnered in the past three months. His dedication, fortitude and meticulous investigative skills have seen Sgt Motsoai achieve many more convictions. Not too shabby for a policeman who started walking the beat in the streets of Bothaville in 2006.

Criminals Beware: D/Sgt Motsoai leaves no stone unturned.


MENTAL ILLNESS

TALK ABOUT

I am taking part in the Mrs SA competition because I want to show other married

women that they can be a mother, wife, and a support pillar to those in need. Mrs SA is not just a beauty pageant. It is a powerful women empowerment programme that focuses on supporting women and children through the Women4Women Organisation.

You can help your community in your neighbourhood, work, church, and even social media – the opportunities are endless. Part of helping others is showing your own vulnerability, opening up about your challenges and how you overcame them. This is what I aim to do today.

I am a survivor of a mental illness. I was diagnosed with severe depression in the last year. Depression is a silent killer in South Africa and the rest of the world. Mental health issues are a battle that cannot be fought alone – people who suffer with mental illness need a solid support structure. The support structure can be at work, home, church or even social media, though these can also be the cause. It is important to seek help from those close to you. This can be your family or even your supervisor at work. Communication is the first thing that must come to your mind. Have someone to talk to.

I applaud commanders who listen to and support their subordinates. I walked my journey with my commanders, as they noticed that something was wrong with me, and they made themselves available to talk. I salute you.

The Employee Health and Wellness Section also helped me immensely. These people will give you an ear and the emotional support that you need. Colleagues, please do not underestimate the power of the tongue – it has the power to build or destroy, depending on how you use it.

Mental health-related diseases have a stigma. In my vernacular, they call it ‘ukuhlanya’ and it does not sound well. People are scared to disclose their problems and seek help, and some end up committing suicide. Colleagues, let us help each other to destigmatise mental health illnesses. Anyone can suffer from a mental illness - it can be you, your friend, your spouse, or a family member who is going through the process.

It is important to seek professional help. We are lucky that our own organisation has a section that focuses on our spiritual and psychological needs. Let us use the facility that is available to us at no cost. They can even refer you to other facilities to assist you during the recovery process.

Let us have caring hearts. Remember that even if it is not you who is diagnosed, you can still be affected by someone who is, and you should still seek help for this.

Do not look down upon yourself or others living with a mental illness. Shine wherever you are. Run your own race, do not compete with other people. God created you for a purpose. Live a purposeful life, set goals for your own life. It begins with you. Stand up and do it.

By Lt Col Zinelile Khumalo

BULLYING IN SCHOOLS

In schools, bullying occurs in all areas. It can occur in nearly any part in or around the

school building, though it more often occurs during school breaks, in hallways, bathrooms, on school buses or while waiting for buses, in classes that require group work and/or after-school activities.

Bullying in school sometimes consists of a group of learners taking advantage of or isolating one learner in particular, and gaining the loyalty of bystanders who want to avoid becoming the next victim.

Warning signs victims of bullying might display:

• Sudden decreased interest in school (wants to stay at home)

• Sudden loss of interest in favourite school activities• Sudden decrease in quality of school work• Wants the parent to take her to school instead of

riding the bus• Seems happy on weekends, but unhappy, preoccupied,

or tense on Sundays• Suddenly prefers the company of adults• Frequent illnesses such as headaches and stomach

aches• Sleep issues such as nightmares and sleeplessness• Comes home with unexplained scratches, bruises, and

torn clothing• Talks about avoiding certain areas of the school or

neighbourhood• Suddenly becomes moody, irritable or angry, and

starts bullying others (e.g. siblings, children in the neighbourhood)

• Seeks the wrong friends in the wrong places (e.g, drug users, gangs, etc)

EHWEHW

• Talks about being sad, anxious, depressed, or having panic attacks

• Wants to stay home on weekends• Talks about suicide.

With the advent of technology, bullying is no longer limited to schoolyards or street corners. Cyberbullying can occur anywhere, even at home, through email, texts, cellular phones or social media websites.

Tips for children or teens dealing with cyberbullying:

• DO NOT RESPOND. If someone bullies you, remember that your reaction is usually exactly what the bully wants. It gives him or her power over you.

• DO NOT RETALIATE. Responding with similar threats reinforces the bully’s behaviour. Help avoid a whole cycle of aggression.

• SAVE THE EVIDENCE. Online messages can usually be captured, saved and shown to someone who can help. Save all evidence, even if it is minor. Cyberbullying can escalate.

• BLOCK THE BULLY. Use preferences or privacy tools to block the person. If it happens while you are chatting, leave the ‘room’.

• REPORT any abusive comments to the social media website administrators.

• REACH OUT FOR HELP. Talk to a friend or a trusted adult who can help.

Parents can help #StopBullying by talking to their children.You can help your child foster respectful relationships with others by talking to them about their behaviour, and getting them the help they need to deal with their anger.

Lt Col Khumalo beat depression and is now vying for the Mrs SA crown.

POLICEAPRIL 202114 15POLICE APRIL 2021FLASH NEWSFLASH NEWS

EFFORTS TO STAMP OUT EXTORTION CRIMES UNDERWAY

The police in the Western Cape have vowed to root out marauding extortion syndicates who have instilled a sense of fear in community members and businesses by threatening the lives of those who refuse to pay a so-called ‘protection fee’.

Speaking at an Anti-Extortion Workshop held at the Cape Town Civic Centre recently, the Deputy Provincial Commissioner for Policing, Maj Gen Mpumelelo Manci, said the aim of the workshop was to

discuss the subject of extortion and narrow it down, so that police officers could have a full grasp of extortion and be familiar with all its intricacies.

Maj Gen Manci further laid bare the painful experiences of how criminal gangs had infiltrated different communities, making demands to have a share of their hard-earned business profits and salaries. He told representatives of the safety and security cluster and other stakeholders in attendance, that one of the purposes of the workshop was to stamp it out once and for all.

“Today we are here to fix our focus firmly on the matter of extortion. We have to be able to understand extortion, so that we can know what we are up against and what we are going to do to dismantle the syndicates and root out extortion in its entirety. It is our view that the presence of different experts and practitioners at this gathering will help us deal with this problem and come up with detailed solutions to be included in our policing strategy and operational plan,” said Maj Gen Manci.

The external role players who attended, included the Office of the Premier, the National Prosecuting Authority, Business Against Crime, and the City of Cape Town’s Safety and Security Unit. Internal role players included the heads of Legal Services, the Hawks, the Bluedowns Cluster, and Corporate Communication and Liaison.

One of the experts in the field of Organised Crime and Extortion, Mr Peter Gastrow from Global Initiative, made a lengthy but eye-opening presentation on the information he had extracted from his research on extortion. He put much emphasis on the need to address the factors contributing

CRIME AWARENESS CAMPAIGN IN EASTERN CAPE

Members of the Brighton Beach Detectives urged members of the public to combat road fatalities during the school holiday period by being responsible road users. This was part of a collaborative Arrive Alive campaign held at the Bluff Towers Mall in KwaZulu-Natal recently.

Members of the Brighton Beach Detective Services, the Liquor Officer and Corporate Communication distributed 500 copies of an Arrive Alive brochure that was researched and developed by Capt LT le Roux.

The brochure touches on a wide range of road safety topics, including -

• the use of seatbelts and child restraints• the prohibition of the use of mobile devices when

driving• how to be a responsible pedestrian • concerns relating to the use of alcohol and banned

substances when driving a motor vehicle.

Shoppers were also encouraged to report unsafe vehicles, reckless and negligent drivers , as well as fraud and corruption related to the traffic sphere, by calling the National Road Traffic Centre on 0861 400 800 or send an email to [email protected].

By PAC Mgcobo Ngxukumeshe Photographs by WO Ryan Jonker

to the upsurge of extortion, and how these syndicates operated.

The workshop divided into two commissions. Commission One delved into: Unemployment and Economic Pressures, Low Risk, Control and Power, Gangsterism, Intimidation, Poverty and Reporting Crime. Commission Two focused on: How do we address the allegations of ineffective policing? How do we break the silence in communities and stop them from giving money? How does extortion affect our economy? What monitoring and evaluation measures can be implemented to stamp out extortion?

The MEC for Public Works, Mr Donald Grant who represented the Office of the Premier, said the Western Cape government would actively provide all the necessary support to dismantle any form of organised crime as it did not only endanger innocent citizens, but also hurt the overall economic activity in the province.

“Our doors will always be open for any engagement and discussion to find workable solutions that will eliminate these criminal syndicates who are hell-bent on continuing to disturb the peace and harmony in our communities,” he said

Representing Business Against Crime, Mr Billy Laubscher giving input at the workshop.

Mr Peter Gastrow, an expert in Organised and Extortion, presenting at the workshop.

Western Cape MEC for Public Works, Mr Donald Grant, addressing workshop delegates.

Members of the public were also encouraged to contact Arrive Alive through their Facebook page facebook.com/ArriveAlive.co.za, their Twitter handle, @-Arrive Alive or calling 012 309 3000.

SAPS URGES ROAD USERS TO COMBAT ROAD FATALITIES

Members of the SAPS in the Eastern Cape held an information-sharing session at the Mntuntloni village on 24 April 2021.

The objective of this initiative was to educate the traditional, rural community of Mntuntloni on various aspects of crime, new developments in government policies, and the frontline services rendered by the SAPS.

The following crime topics were at the top of the agenda: • Sexual offences• Gender-based violence• Forced child marriages and abduction• Contravention of Covid-19 Disaster Management

Regulations• Sexual harassment• Stock theft• Substance abuse • Initiation schools and traditions

The community was also encouraged to use the modern technology available to them to report any criminal activity taking place around them, to the police for further investigation. Crime stop contact telephone numbers were shared with the community, and they were taught how to use the MySAPS App.

The information shared by the police was well received and welcomed by the Royal House of Amaqhinebe and the community. This session was also endorsed by the Community Policing Forum’s leadership present.

Members of the SAPS educating the rural Mntuntloni community on crime trends.

SAPS members handing over a Road Safety pamphlet at the walkabout in Bluff Towers mall.


By Capt Khaya Tonjeni

MEMBERS RECOGNISED FOR LOYAL SERVICE

The Provincial Commissioner of the SAPS in the Eastern Cape, Lt Gen Liziwe Ntshinga,

conferred long service medals upon 30 dedicated police officials at a ceremony held at the Griffiths Mxenge Hall in Zwelitsha recently.

Lt Gen Ntshinga was flanked by her deputies, Deputy Provincial Commissioner: Corporate Services, Maj Gen Thobeka Kunene, and Acting Deputy Provincial Commissioner: Policing, Brig Nompumelelo Majikijela. Other senior police members from all districts in the province were also in attendance.

In her welcoming address, Maj Gen Kunene said, “Today we will be honouring all those who have displayed good conduct over 20, 30 and 40 years’ service. Let me welcome you today in joining a group of committed members.” The SAPS Code of Conduct was then read to all members on parade. Of the 30 medal recipients, at least six were recognised for 40 years of loyal, uninterrupted, and untainted service to the SAPS.

Addressing the parade, Lt Gen Ntshinga said, “They are so blessed to have reached their 40 years of service milestone. It is a huge accomplishment – something many aspire toward. This ceremony holds special significance for me because we are honouring men and women who have served this organisation with distinction. We know police members are being criticized for being corrupt or

ill-disciplined daily, but we still have those who have managed to keep a clean record for 40 years. That is remarkable. These champions deserve our unreserved support and appreciation for their countless accomplishments over the years.”

In her closing remarks, Brig Majikijela thanked the medal recipients, saying: “The SAPS is acknowledging your work and dedication. This shows that disciplined people are appreciated and rewarded. Continue to be exemplary members.”

COUNTERFEIT CLOTHING

The SAPS and the South African Revenue Service (SARS) joined forces to clamp down

on the illegal importation of counterfeit clothing, which is detrimental to the country’s economy.

SAPS and SARS Customs officials seized bales of counterfeit clothing worth about R25 million recently. This was part of their on-going enforcement operation at the Johannesburg Bridge Depot.

The Commander of the Operational Response Service’s Border Policing Unit, Col Bathandwa Mdleleni, explained how his team caught on to the containers: “We acted on a tip-off that containers with goods suspected to be counterfeit and that had not been declared, would be arriving at the Bridge Depot in Johannesburg. Our swift response and on-site inspection of the container, helped us discover false declarations that would not have been easily picked up otherwise. We immediately requested that the containers be declared, but we discovered only one

container under a clearing agent – JJK Business Consultants – with 256 bales of clothing with different protected brands. Fortunately, the container was stopped as it was already on SARS’s profile system.”

Col Mdleleni further explained that only two items had been declared by the importer, but preliminary investigations revealed controlled brands that had not been cleared

SAPS AND SARS CRACK DOWN ON

in terms of Customs Revenue Collections in other bales.

“I can say this is actually an 80% false declaration of all the items in the container. As soon as we concluded our preliminary investigations, we engaged with SARS to assist with sorting, counting, figuring out what was legitimate in terms of the declaration, and what was not declared. We also had to determine which items were counterfeit and/or contraband in terms of the required commodities,” said Col Mdleleni.

The police opened a case of possession of and dealing in counterfeit goods at the Johannesburg Central Police Station, and investigations continue.

The Customs Manager for the City Deep Port of Entry, Mr Sipho Mahanjana, hailed the joint efforts of the SAPS and SARS as a great example of a successful partnership to clamp down on and investigate the illegal counterfeit world.

“We need all hands on deck. Working closely with the SAPS’s Border Police and members of the public, will assist to clamp down on counterfeit goods and clothing that are flooding our country and have a negative impact on the country’s economy,” said Mr Mahanjana

By Capt Vincent Mukhathi Photographs by Capt Ndanduleni Nyambeni

Police inspecting batches of imported clothing found to be counterfeit.

Member confirming the legitimacy of clothing.

The container housing contraband.

Senior managers joining the parade to inspect long service recipients on parade.

Lt Gen Ntshinga pinning a Loyal Service medal on a proud member.


THE VALUE OF RESEARCH IN POLICING

The SAPS’s Research Component went on a month-long national roadshow to guide the

relevant stakeholders on how research was aligned with policing priorities and the needs of the public.

The tour was led by the Head of the Research Component, Maj Gen (Dr) Phillip Vuma. The roadshow explained all research activities and how they support organisational planning, policy formulation, decision making and other activities related to the organisation.

The delegation first went to Limpopo, where they met with representatives from the province’s Supply Chain Management, Strategic Management, Organisational Development, Communication and Joint Operational Centre.

In his lecture, Maj Gen (Dr) Vuma highlighted the importance of both internally applied research reports and basic external research reports in guiding policy directions and procedures. “Such academic papers help to inform evidence-based policing practices,” he said.

Maj Gen (Dr) Vuma further explained the Research Advisory Committee’s (RAC) role and structure. He also stated that the RAC served as an ethics and quality assurance body and that the main task of the RAC was to recommend all the research projects that the Research Component was undertaking, while the Head of Research still had to approve them.

The Research Advisory Committee’s objectives are the following:

• Serve as a panel to evaluate and recommend internal and external research proposals

• Provide oversight and support regarding the implementation of the Research Agenda

• Identify new aspects, dimensions and topics relating to policing that require further research, which should inform the Research Agenda

• Consider the interests of the various environments within the SAPS and assess the potential value of research relating to policing or organisational matters as proposed

• Resolve disputes emanating from recommendations for research projects

• Serve as a quality assurance forum to evaluate research findings and reports of completed projects before tabling them at the appropriate managerial forum for dissemination

• Undertake the revision of internal policies relevant to research, including National Instruction 1 of 2006 (Research in the South African Police Service), the Research Agenda, the Policy on Research Governance in the SAPS, and the guidelines on research ethics in the SAPS.

The Research Governance Section remains responsible for receiving and checking applications for completeness and preparing correspondence in this regard.

Maj Gen (Dr) Vuma also explained the research application process and provided divisional and provincial research statistics for the 2019/2020 financial year.

The SAPS’s Deputy Provincial Commissioner for Human Resources Management in Mpumalanga, Maj Gen Thembi Hadebe, thanked the Research Component for visiting the

province and in doing so, clarifying some of the issues that were put on the table. “We have heard what the component expects from us, it is now very clear. All that is left for us to do is to get the ball rolling and start implementing all that is necessary,” she said.

Echoing the same sentiments, the SAPS’s Deputy Provincial Commissioner for Corporate Services in Limpopo, Maj Gen Christinah Morakaladi, said that the roadshow had provided her team with the necessary research expertise and committed to ensuring that the recommendations put forward would be implemented.

Supporting the other deputy provincial commissioner’s sentiments, the SAPS’s Deputy Provincial Commissioner for Crime Detection in KwaZulu-Natal, Maj Gen Muzikayifani Zondi, whose members attended in numbers, also said that there was now clarity about what was expected of the province as far as research was concerned. “Before this presentation, it was not really clear how the process worked and who needed to be in which structure. Now our province will be participating fully in the process and we will also look into participating in the RAC,” he said.

With the beginning of the 2021/2022 financial year, the Research Component aimed at undertaking annual studies linked to the SAPS’s 2020-2025 Strategic Plan, which include the following:

• Customer Satisfaction Survey and Public Perception of the SAPS’s Effectiveness

• Technology Solutions for Human Resources, Assets, and Crime Management

• Eradicating corruption in the SAPS

• The development of an Anti-corruption Strategy and incorporating it into policing models to address corruption in law enforcement.

By Capt Keitumetse Mmushi Photographs by Capt Kgabo Mashamaite

Members of the SAPS deliberating on their roles in research of policing activities.


Davidi Faleng Nyaile

MISSING PERSONS

PLEASE HELP US LOCATE THEM…

The missing person left home and has not been seen since. He was wearing black jeans, a white jacket, a blue jersey and grey sport shoes.

Booysens 4/2/2021Investigating Officer: Sgt M NedombeloniTel: 011 407 1634

(21) Male

Last seen: 2021-02-08

BRENDAN TKAUDZWA TAVAZIVA

The missing person left home and has not been seen since. She was wearing grey trousers, a yellow t-shirt, black shoes with navy blue socks.

Moroka 1691/2/2021Investigating Officer: Const L MdletsheTel: 011 986 9000

(9) Female

Last seen: 2021-02-16

THATO RACHANE

The missing person left home and has not been seen since. He was wearing an orange t-shirt, blue jeans and pink sandals.

Fochville 1/2/2021Investigating Officer: Sgt FN MokgeleTel: 082 435 7402

(17) Female

Last seen: 2021-02-16

KARABO TUIS

The missing person left home and has not been seen since.

Honeydew 14/2/2021Investigating Officer: WO KP MatshabaTel: 011 801 8400

(49) Male

Last seen: 2020-02-17

GOODWILL ZWANE

The missing person left home and has not been since. He was wearing a green t-shirt, grey trousers and brown sandals.

Honeydew 13/2/2021Investigating Officer: WO KP MatshabaTel: 011 801 8440

(40) Male

Last seen: 2021-02-05

DOUGLAS TIMANE

The missing person left home and has not been seen since. She was wearing a purple traditional dress.

Booysens 8/2/2021Investigating Officer: Sgt PW MokoenaTel: 011 433 5319

(37) Female

Last seen: 2021-02-01

GLADYS ELISE TEGOMO

(30) Male

Last seen: 2020-12-03

MICHAEL MANAMELA

The missing person left home and has not been seen since. She was wearing a navy blue skirt, a yellow shirt, navy blue socks and black shoes.

Moroka 1692/2/2021Investigating Officer: Const L MdletsheTel: 011 986 9000

(8) Female

Last seen: 2021-02-16

MPHO RACHANE


Edenpark 4/2/2021Investigating Officer: Sgt DT SeemeTel: 011 960 0080

Female

Last seen: 2021-02-19

KIASHA JAWAHIR

The missing person left home and has not been seen since. He was wearing a green t-shirt, grey shorts and grey sport shoes.

Tembisa 2/2/2021Investigating Officer: Const NW ChavalalaTel: 011 920 8000


Roodepoort 7/12/2020Investigating Officer: Sgt EM TemeTel: 082 492 3963

(42) Female

Last seen: 2020-12-08

KHUMO JUDITH MOSIANE

PLEASE HELP US LOCATE THEM…

THE POCKET BOOK: PART ONEIn the next few editions, we will be publishing information on the National Instruction 2 of 2021. The instruction specifies how the pocket book (SAPS 206) should be used. Enjoy part one and look out for part two next month.

1. Background

The official pocket book (SAPS 206) is the most important document which, when properly used, provides support and enables members to recollect incidents in court. It must be used as a personal duty record and as an activity or task record to show all police work performed by a member. If completed properly, the extent of a member’s tasks, the measure of his or her diligence and spirit of enterprise will be reflected therein.

2. PurposeThe purpose of this Instruction is to regulate the use of a pocket book (SAPS 206).

3. ScopeThis National Instruction is applicable to all members of the South African Police Service, (including reservists).

4. Regulatory frameworkThis National Instruction is inter alia informed by the following:

(a) Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, 1996 (Act 108 of 1996);

(b) Criminal Procedure Act, 1977 (Act No. 51 of 1977);(c) South African Police Service Act, 1995 (Act No. 68

of 1995); and(d) South African Police Service Discipline

Regulations, 2016.

5. DefinitionsIn this Instruction, unless the context otherwise indicates —(a) “functional duties” means all operational policing

duties performed by a member at a police station or unit;

(b) “incident” means any crime related occurrence or complaint received and attended;

(c) “member” means —(i) a member of the South African Police

Service appointed in terms of the South African Police Service Act, 1995 (Act No 68 of 1995), and

(ii) includes a member of the South African Reserve Police Service, while such member is on duty in the Service;

(d) “station commander” means any member appointed in command of a police station, whether permanently or temporarily; and

(e) “unit commander” means any member appointed in command of a unit whether permanent or temporarily.

6. Keeping of a pocket book (1) The following members must when he or she is on

duty have a pocket book (SAPS 206) in his or her possession:(a) every non-commissioned officer involved

in functional duties; and(b) an officer, if his or her work in the

operational environment, necessitates the use thereof.

(2) Officers (and non-commissioned officers with the relevant permission) who do not keep a Pocket Book must keep a diary in accordance with Standing Order (General) 27.

(3) A commander may instruct an officer to keep a Pocket Book. In the latter case, the need for keeping a diary falls away.

7. Completion of a pocket book(1) The pocket book must be completed as follows:

(a) in black ink; (b) the day and date at the commencement

of each day and, thereafter, at the top of every page used for that day;

(c) the time of each occurrence in the left hand margin;

(d) without leaving blank spaces between entries; and

(e) the last pages may be used for making notes on the information obtained (e.g. persons or vehicles sought, or lost and stolen property).

(2) A member must make entries in his or her pocket book —(a) at the time of the occurrence giving

rise to the entry, or as soon as possible thereafter, while events or incidents are still fresh in the memory of the member;

(b) as complete and accurate as possible (e.g. giving the exact place and time), including relevant reference numbers (e.g. Incident Report number, CAS number, etc.); and

(c) in the order in which they occurred.

(3) If applicable, entries must be signed by the interested parties to serve as proof of actions taken.

POSSESSION OF AN UNLICENCED FIREARMLUYOLO MVOTO

Investigating Officer: Sgt RL Williams021 699 9439

22 POLICE APRIL 2021

ILLEGAL POSSESSION OF DRUGSNAZLIE JACOBS

Investigating Officer: Sgt AG Davids013 655 5082082 543 5745

ILLEGAL POSSESSION OF DRUGSSALCHE OMALY

Investigating Officer: Sgt NH Visagie021 955 2323

RAPENTHABISENG MOTSHOENE

Investigating Officer: Sgt PM Msiza013 655 5082

MURDERMAGDALENE SOLDAAT

Investigating Officer: Sgt A Farao021 700 3927

MURDERCHINWEMWE CHINGA KAMBAYI

Investigating Officer: Sgt EW November021 954 9000

DRIVING UNDER THE INFLUENCEJOHN NKHANA

Investigating Officer: Const MC Davey021 700 3900

POSSESSION OF SUSPECTED STOLEN PROPERTYFUNDILE PHALAZA MAMKELI

Investigating Officer: Sgt S Kasana021 950 1170

The South African Police Service requests urgent assistance from members of the public in tracing the following alleged perpertrators wanted in connection with various criminal offences committed countrywide.

WANTED PERSONS

SAPS CRIME STOP0 8 6 0 0 1 0 1 1 1

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