SAPS honoured at Prestige Awards

Johannesburg - National police commissioner General Riah Phiyega commended Gauteng’s police officers for their work at the service’s annual Prestige Awards.

“My heart and blood is blue. I’m ready to run. March on and carry on doing what you do.”

Phiyega said officers should be able to look in the mirror and know they were delivering the goods.

At the event on Saturday night, Gauteng officers were rewarded for outstanding service in several categories. The province has the biggest police force, with 40 000 officers.

Deputy Minister of Police Maggie Sotyu and several provincial commissioners also attended the ceremony.

Woman of the Year Sergeant Olga Masetla was greeted with ululations, owing to an international award she received this year.

The silver cross for bravery was awarded to Warrant Officer Johan Fourie, who rescued a toddler from a swarm of bees.

Station commanders, detectives and crime intelligence employees were singled out. The main Provincial Commissioner’s Award went to four cluster commanders for improved performance.

Reservists and policemen who showed “exceptional” bravery were presented with commendations and cash of up to R25 000.

The province’s disabled employees, support staff and leave co-ordinators were also honoured.

The Station Commander of the Year Award went to Sharpeville, while the Detective of the Year went Orlando station.

Phiyega handed out glass trophies and framed certificates in front of about 800 SAPS women and men on the night, while the force’s national jazz band entertained them.

There was an emotional scene when a posthumous award was handed to the widow of one of 16 members killed on duty during the year.

Provincial commissioner Lieutenant General Mzwandile Petros commented on the victim research survey released last week.

He said the figures were heartening and members’ continuous dedication would further improve these statistics.

“As individuals, you have chosen the most noble of professions and are committed to justice. This ship is very much on course.

“I’d like to acknowledge the communities and the support we are receiving. People are asking what they can do to help the SAPS. We are much indebted to them and will continue to work with them.”

Edcon, one of the country’s largest retail groups, was a primary sponsor of the event and is involved in several projects to offer infrastructural and financial support to the SAPS.

Edcon group project manager for operations Saber Manjoo stressed the company’s dedication to civilians’ safety.

“As corporates, we often sit back and have negative things to say about SAPS, but we have a role to play. Edcon is committed to being a major sponsor.”

The Star