Free State police honours women in policing

The Free State police department held a two-day event in honour of women in policing from Thursday, 24 February 2022 to Friday, 25 February 2022.

The first day featured an auspicious gala-dinner graced with esteemed guests including Lesedi and Motsweding FM business manager – Mamontha Motaung, MEC of police, road and transport in Free State – Kwekwe Bulwane, Free State police commissioner – Lieutenant General Baile Motswenyane, and various stakeholders.

Throughout the night, the SAPS band lightened up the hall with jazz music.

Motswenyane announced the Free State police department raised 1 000 sanitary towels and 186 pairs of shoes to donate to less fortunate school children. As a result, Brigadier Makhele and Miss Plus Intercontinental title holder, then announced that they were also joining in

The evening also included an award ceremony with certificates, trophies and monetary prizes handed out to hardworking and selfless officers of the law.

Ending the event on a high note, all present police officials, stakeholders and members of the media were invited to a buffet whilst enjoying the music and socialising.

The second day was more relaxed and fun-filled, featuring female-only police parades by various districts in the province. The Free State premier, Sisi Ntombela was also present.

In an interview with Kasi Voice News, police commissioner, Baile Motswenyane, said the provincial department was concerned with the recent rise of GBV cases, and they were hands-on in trying to reduce crime against women and children.

She further stated that the community needed encouragement and the support in reporting cases of GBV.

“We are working together with the community structures to ensure effective workforce so that community members can be our eyes and ears in their respective communities,” added the provincial commissioner.

The Lieutenant General stated that the leadership of women within the police department was an initiative to encourage and support women, but made it clear that positions were not handed out to individuals just because they were women.

“We don’t want to employ someone because she is a woman, but because they are capable and have the potential do do a marvellous job when appointed to a certain position,” concluded the Lieutenant General.