| 2024/12/20 |
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Media Statement POLOKWANE – The Provincial Commissioner of the South African Police Service in Limpopo, Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe, would like to acknowledge and commend the exceptional work of Sergeant Thabelo Sigida, a dedicated and compassionate Visible Policing officer attached to Malamulele SAPS, who demonstrated extraordinary determination in a case involving the concealment of birth and abandonment of a newborn child. On Sunday, 07 December 2024, a newborn baby boy was found abandoned in a plastic bag along a road in the Masheleni area near Xigalo Village, in the Malamulele policing area, Vhembe District. The child was discovered by a concerned member of the community, who immediately alerted local authorities. The baby, in critical need of medical care, was taken to a local hospital for treatment, while efforts to locate the mother continued. Sergeant Sigida, who was on duty at the time, showed remarkable dedication and care. Despite completing her shift, she refused to rest until she had taken action. Visiting the hospital regularly, she provided clothing for the child and even gave the baby a name, Thabelo Sigida, after her own name, as an expression of her deep compassion. Sergeant Sigida’s determination to ensure the well-being of the child was evident as she tirelessly worked to uncover the identity of the mother. Over the course of 29 days, Sergeant Sigida worked relentlessly, following every lead and even conducting her investigation during off-duty hours. Despite numerous challenges, her commitment never wavered. Her efforts were instrumental in finally locating an informant who provided critical information about the whereabouts of the mother. She immediately acted on this lead, using police resources and collaborating with Detective Services members to apprehend the suspect. On Sunday, 15 December 2024, the mother was successfully located and arrested on charges of concealment of birth. The child, who had endured a difficult start in life, will now be placed in a place of safety, where he can receive the care and love he deserves. Sergeant Sigida’s actions exemplify the values of courage, compassion, and dedication that define the South African Police Service. Her unwavering commitment to justice, combined with her deep empathy for the child, has made a profound impact on the community and highlighted the importance of going above and beyond the call of duty. “We are incredibly proud to have Sergeant Sigida in our ranks. Her exceptional service has inspired her colleagues and serves as a powerful reminder that law enforcement officers can be both fierce protectors and compassionate advocates for justice. We extend our deepest gratitude and admiration to Sergeant Sigida for her outstanding contributions to justice and her unwavering commitment to making a difference in the lives of those she serves,” said Lieutenant General Hadebe. The 20-year-old foreign national mother appeared before the Malamulele Magistrate’s Court on Wednesday, 18 December 2024. She was remanded in custody until Monday, 23 December 2024, for a formal bail application. Ends
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