6 October 2004

By Clifford Mogotsi

A passing out ceremony was held at the Market Hall in the civic centre complex in Mogale City on Friday, 1 October for 49 newly qualified police officers.

The new members of the South African Police Services will be stationed at various police offices around Mogale City and in Westonaria.

The police officers completed a three-month theoretical training course at the police college in Pretoria and then spent a week putting their skills into practise at the Krugersdorp Police Station.

According to Inspector Dorcas Senna the recruits had written theory tests at the college and then had to be trained on the practical side of policing.

Besides learning about the duties and responsibilities of police officials - and the need to be accountable - the recruits were shown how to take down statements and sketch details of car accidents, particularly in cases of serious injuries.

They were shown how to attend to complaints and how to improve the image of the SAPS.

Constable Elton Johannes Moroane, who was once a street vendor and machine operator at a company, was overwhelmed that he finally got the job he always wanted. Assigned to the Randfontein Police Station, Moroane said: "I am fully prepared to protect the community."

Several other constables will be based at the Krugersdorp and Westonaria police stations.

During the passing out parade, speakers addressed the arduous nature of policing and encouraged the newly qualified police officials to remain focused.

Krugersdorp Station Commander Henriette Bester said that being in the SAPS involved sacrifices. She warned of the dangers, adding: "Bear in mind what you have been equipped with. You now have skills and resources to combat crime in our communities."

Field trainer, Inspector Sello Makgalanchecho, praised the commitment the group had shown during training. "We are guaranteed that they will improve the image of the SAPS on the West Rand."

Former receptionist Marina Jacob was voted the best student. She said: "I always wanted to become a cop and I am glad to be appointed to the crime prevention unit."