officials of the SAPS
5 July 2006
The National Commissioner of the South African Police Service has approved
awards for outstanding service to two civilians employed as administrative
clerks at Communication and Liaison Services in the South African Police
Service (SAPS), namely Mr James Masemola and Mr Sello Christopher Letsoalo.
The two officials were awarded certificates of commendation and a
substantial amount of money in recognition of their bravery and dedication in
the face of danger.
On the 10 February 2005 Messrs Masemola and Letsoalo were tasked to deliver
some documentation at the SABC, Auckland Park in Johannesburg, while in the
ordinary course of their official duties.
On their way to Pretoria, at the corner of Kingsway and Henley Road, they
were stopped by a woman who was hysterical and reported that two men had just
robbed her of a cellular phone. With the help of the complainant the officials
spotted the two suspects and gave chase.
One of the suspects was arrested by one of the officials and unlawful
firearms as well as three stolen cellular phones in his possession, were
confiscated. The second suspect was also arrested after onlookers came to the
assistance of the two officials.
What is interesting is that the crowd that gathered at the scene demanded
that punishment be meted out to the suspects and they were baying for their
blood. However, the sharp witted officials managed to control the crowd until
the suspects were safely handed over to the police, whereupon they were taken
into custody and the case of armed robbery registered and investigated against
them.
The suspects were eventually convicted by a court of law and sentenced.
Clearly, events could have gone out of hand, not only resulting in mob
justice being meted out, but also the danger of being killed by the suspects
who were armed with firearms.
This incident demonstrates the need for public participation in the fight
against crime, without resorting to mob justice.
The SAPS is grateful to these two courageous men who have diligently
rendered a service far beyond their job descriptions and consciously put their
lives on the line by confronting armed criminals in the interest of the
community. We are proud to have men of their calibre in our midst and we
congratulate them for their work well done and their well deserved awards.
I wish therefore, on behalf of the SAPS, to present the certificates as well
as the cheques to the recipients.
Enquiries:
Captain Percy Morokane
National Spokesperson
Tel: (012) 393 5522
Cell: 082 778 5602
Fax: (012) 393 5525/27
E-mail: mediarelations@saps.org.za
Issued by: South African Police Service (SAPS)
5 July 2006
Source: SAPA
