The Frances Baard district commissioner, Major-General Charlotte Makgari, joined by the provincial head of the Hawks, Major-General Steven Mabuela, along with senior officers, component heads, and members of the religious fraternity, held a prayer service at the Full Gospel Church in Galeshewe this week. The gathering commemorated Police Safety Month and honoured those who have lost their lives in the line of duty in the Northern Cape.
IN A HEARTFELT event held at the Full Gospel Church in Galeshewe this week, the Frances Baard district commissioner, Major-General Charlotte Makgari, alongside Major-General Steven Mabuela, the provincial head of the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigations, led a prayer service to mark Police Safety Month. The event, attended by senior officers, component heads, SAPS members and the religious fraternity, aimed to remember and honour those who have lost their lives in the line of duty in the Northern Cape.
Provincial police spokesperson Sergeant Molefi Shemane reported that the programme, held on September 26, was directed by Chaplain Seturumane. Chaplain Pudule from Provincial Employee Health and Wellness, Spiritual Services, delivered the welcoming address and outlined the purpose of the day.
Representatives from various religious faiths offered prayers for the SAPS provincial management, the prevention of police killings, the mental health and well-being of members, and the eradication of gender-based violence.
A poignant candle-lighting ceremony, led by Major-General Makgari and Major-General Mabuela, honoured Warrant Officer Dipipenyane, Sergeant Masilo and Constable Mandindi, who lost their lives in the line of duty during the previous financial year.
Archbishop Mofokeng, in his sermon, urged members to protect themselves both physically and spiritually. Major-General Makgari, speaking on behalf of the provincial commissioner, Lieutenant-General Koliswa Otola, emphasised the importance of prayer in providing strength and fortitude during adversity.
Addressing critical issues within the organisation, Major-General Makgari highlighted the detrimental effects of ill-discipline and extortion on police effectiveness and public trust. She stressed the need for police members to uphold the highest standards of professionalism, as any form of misconduct tarnishes the police’s reputation and violates community rights.
She also reminded members to wear their bulletproof vests, ensure their firearms are in good condition, and remain vigilant at all times. She called for unity among members to restore and maintain the integrity and credibility of the police force.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks from Colonel Sebe Qunta, followed by a closing prayer and benediction from Reverend Mothelesi.
