The South African Police Service (SAPS) in Limpopo hosted a prestigious recognition ceremony in Mokopane this week, honouring Colonel Remmonejesu Samuel Sekgota and his team for transforming the once-struggling Mahwelereng Police Station into the top-performing station in the province — and the first runner-up nationally in the Station of the Year competition.
The celebratory event, held at PV Lifestyle in Mokopane, was attended by prominent dignitaries including Mogalakwena Mayor Ngoako Tauyatswala, Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe, retired Major General Dikeledi Mangena, and members of the Magombane Royal House. Also present were representatives from the Department of Justice, Correctional Services, traffic departments, church leaders, community policing forums, and private security firms.
Colonel Sekgota, who was appointed by Hadebe in January 2023 to lead the station’s turnaround, was praised for his strategic leadership, discipline, and community-focused approach.
“Colonel Sekgota, a leader rooted in faith, humility, and commitment, took charge of a struggling station and led it to excellence,” said SAPS spokesperson Brigadier Motlafela Mojapelo.
Transformational Leadership
In his address, Sekgota highlighted his strategy, which focused on two core pillars:
- Restoring morale among officers by aligning their duties with their strengths.
- Rebuilding community trust through proactive stakeholder engagement.
“Once we refocused our efforts and built strong partnerships with the communities we serve, the results began to show. From district recognition to provincial victory, and now national acclaim — we never looked back,” Sekgota said.
Under his leadership, Mahwelereng Police Station achieved:
- A 54.7% reduction in contact crimes
- A 13.03% decrease in property-related crimes
- The establishment of a revamped Victim Empowerment Centre
- Implementation of Operation Letjema and other community initiatives
- Enhanced response to gender-based violence and child protection cases
Praise from Provincial Leadership
Lieutenant General Hadebe, Limpopo’s provincial commissioner, lauded Sekgota’s contributions and hailed Mahwelereng’s transformation as a blueprint for policing success.
“Your leadership has rekindled hope and set a new benchmark for excellence. The victim-friendly facility, built through community support, embodies our collective commitment to serving with dignity,” she said.
She emphasized that policing success in Limpopo is rooted in collaborative partnerships and shared responsibility between SAPS and the public.
“I commend Colonel Sekgota not only for results but for consistently managing resources effectively and setting an example for others.”
Applause from Stakeholders
In his keynote speech, Mayor Tauyatswala praised Hadebe’s decision to appoint Sekgota, calling him the “right man for the job.”
“His leadership brought peace, improved crime stats, and strengthened municipal partnerships,” the mayor said.
Advocate Dimakatso Morris Thanyane, speaking on behalf of the National Prosecuting Authority, commended the station’s efficient collaboration with the justice system.
“Mahwelereng works like a well-oiled machine, ensuring justice is delivered swiftly and fairly,” he said.
Representatives of Business Against Crime, Mogalakwena Platinum, and IvanPlats Mine echoed these sentiments, applauding the SAPS team for maintaining order during turbulent protests and protecting critical mining operations.
Community Support and Sponsorship
The event was supported by generous contributions from Mogalakwena Platinum Mine, IvanPlats, Mogalakwena Municipality, Mahwelereng Shopping Centre, Papanyana Foundation, Ramatla Ohle, and Ngwetjana Madumetja Security Services. IvanPlats also donated reflector jackets to Young Civilians on Patrol (YCOP) and local community safety forums.
