Bittersweet farewell: 'Joe' Marimuthu retires after 34 years of service

Warrant Officer Joseph Chengiah Marimuthu, the sector commander for the Bayview policing area, has retired from the SAPS after 34 years of service and now looks forward to spending time with his children and grandchild.

As he closes a major chapter of his life, the 60-year-old, who was honoured at a farewell ceremony, admitted that retirement was bittersweet.

“The SAPS has been like a second family, and leaving behind the uniform, the routine, and the comradeship is not easy. There is a sense of sadness in saying goodbye to colleagues and the life I have known for so long," said Marimuthu.

“However, I also feel grateful and relieved. Retirement brings the opportunity to rest, spend more time with loved ones, and enjoy the peace that comes after years of demanding service. Overall, this is a moment for reflection, gratitude, and hope as I step into a new phase of life with appreciation for the journey I have had in the police service."

Marimuthu said from a young age, he believed in justice, safety, and the importance of protecting others, especially those who could not protect themselves. He said this motivated him to join the SAPS.

“I was inspired by the idea of being part of something greater than myself. To me, being a police officer was a career where I could contribute to building a safer country. I wanted to stand against crime, help victims, and bring hope and security to communities. Joining the police was not just about having a job, but about answering a calling to serve with dedication, courage, and commitment. That motivation has stayed with me throughout my years of service."

The father of two said policing had changed significantly since he first joined.

"In the early days of my career, policing was more traditional. We relied heavily on physical patrols, face-to-face communication, and basic investigative methods. Technology was limited, and most of the work depended on experience, community knowledge, and teamwork on the ground.

“Over the years, policing has become far more modern and complex. Today, we deal with new types of crime such as cybercrime, organised criminal networks, and more sophisticated methods used by offenders. This required SAPS members to adapt, learn new skills, and use advanced technology and intelligence-driven policing. Looking back, I am proud to have been part of this journey and to have witnessed the evolution of policing in SAPS over the years."

Marimuthu said his time at the Bayview SAPS had shaped him as a police officer and a person.

“I will always be grateful for the memories, the lessons, and the people I served alongside. Policing has taught me many important lessons and values that I will carry with me into retirement.

“I advise younger officers just starting their careers to approach policing with dedication, integrity, and an open heart. They must remember that policing is a service. Officers must protect and support their community. Treat every person you encounter with respect, fairness, and compassion, because the way you conduct yourself leaves a lasting impression."

Marimuthu started his career at Bayview SAPS in 1992 and also worked at Pinetown and Hillcrest police stations.

Warrant Officer Collin Chetty, the communications officer at Bayview SAPS, said Marimuthu worked closely with the community, which helped eliminate criminal elements.

“He was fondly known in the community as Joe, and he was always willing to help any member of the community. He became a face synonymous with dedication, and he portrayed the rightful image of the police at all times.

“Joe was a mentor to many of his colleagues. His retirement will create a void at the Bayview police station, as he takes with him his vast knowledge and skills that bridge the community-policing gap,” Chetty said.

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