Tshwane strengthens crime-fighting with new brigadier appointments

The appointment of six new brigadiers as part of the Tshwane Metro Police Department (TMPD) management has been praised as a step in the right direction to bolster the fight against crime in the municipality.

This was the sentiment shared by Member of the Mayoral Committee for Community Safety Hannes Coetzee, who said the brigadiers' appointments must send a strong message that criminals have no place to hide in Tshwane. 

“This is a critical step in strengthening the leadership team tasked with safeguarding our communities. These appointments mark an important milestone in intensifying the fight against crime and lawlessness in our capital city,” he said.

He expressed gratitude to the new brigadiers, saying their well-deserved appointments are a recognition of their dedication and capability.

He emphasised that communities deserve to live in a city that is safe, orderly, and governed by the rule of law. 

“Together with the TMPD, we will ensure that residents can reclaim their streets, neighbourhoods, and public spaces. The City of Tshwane reaffirms its commitment to building a safer and more secure environment,” Coetzee said.

TMPD spokesperson Senior Superintendent Isaac Mahamba said the brigadiers underwent a rigorous selection process to join the metro police's top management.

“Each brigadier has been assigned to specific responsibilities within the department to enhance policing efforts and improve overall efficiency,” he said.

For example, he said four of the brigadiers will head regional policing operations, overseeing daily activities like crime prevention, road policing, and enforcing city by-laws.

Another brigadier has been appointed to lead the TMPD academy and innovation department, focusing on training metro police officers to boost their crime-fighting skills.

One brigadier will head the specialised policing division, handling high-intensity and complex situations that demand specialised skills and expertise.

At a ceremony welcoming the brigadiers at TMPD headquarters on Wednesday, Commissioner Yolande Faro stressed the crucial role the new brigadiers will play in fighting crime and maintaining law and order in the city.

Mahamba said: “These appointments signify a commitment to strengthening the organisation's leadership and enhancing its policing capabilities. Each brigadier brings a unique set of skills and expertise to their respective roles, and their collective efforts will contribute to improving public safety and security in the City of Tshwane.”

The appointments come after Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi's announcement last month, emphasising the need for integrated law enforcement units to fight crime, with a collaborative approach to target and arrest criminals terrorising communities.

The integration involves metro police departments in Johannesburg, Tshwane, and Ekurhuleni, along with Gauteng crime wardens, who have recently signed a memorandum of understanding to collaborate.

rapula.moatshe@inl.co.za