| 2024/08/02 |
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Media Statement POLOKWANE – A sombre memorial service was held on, Thursday, 01 August 2024 for the SAPS Limpopo Provincial Head of Crime Registrar, Brigadier Josephine Mmamokopu Mathe aged 49, affectionately known as “Nnyana” whose life was tragically cut short following a shooting incident that occurred on Sunday afternoon, 28 July in Westenburg policing area outside Polokwane. The service, attended by SAPS top management was led by the Provincial Commissioner Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe, colleagues, family, and friends, was a poignant tribute to the late Brigadier’s dedication and commitment to the South African Police Service for distinguished 14 years. The sermon was rendered by (Chaplain) Liutentenat Colonel Mahlangu and (Chaplain) Captain Sefora. The Deputy Provincial Commissioner for Crime Detection, Major General Samuel Manala welcomed the guests and on behalf of the SAPS, extended deepest condolences to the family and everyone affected by the Brigadier’s ultimate death. Speakers from Crime Registrar namely Colonel Raphahlela, Principal Personnel Officer MD Mojapelo, Secretary K Mphahlele and Provincial-Head HRM, Brigadier BL Sigage, shared heartfelt tributes, highlighting Brigadier Mathe’s kindness, compassion and unwavering commitment to work and deep love for her children. The Provincial Head of Human Resource Management and Development Brigadier Sigage added that the late Brigadier was a woman of great virtue who took pride in herself and work. She said that though a piece of the puzzle is lost forever, we must celebrate the legacy and contributions Brigadier has left behind Women’s Network Champion Brigadier MV Mashila and Men for Change Colonel RS Sekgota spoke about the urgent need to address gender-based violence both within the Police Service and society at large. They emphasised that through the structures, they will continue to work tirelessly to address GBVF through advocacy, education, and support services. In addition, these structures seek to engage men and boys in promoting gender equality and preventing violence against women. Representative of Eyes of the Nation, SAPU and POPCRU also paid tribute to the late Brigadier Mathe as they saluted her for always keeping the communities informed about the crime picture in the province. The Police Unions raised a concern about prevalent incidents of GBVF, which also affects SAPS employees. The Provincial CPF Board Chairperson, Mr Frans Kgasago urged the community-based organisations, stakeholders, and community to work tirelessly to support survivors, advocate for legal reforms and educate the public about GBVF. The Component Head: Crime Registrar Major General Thulare Sekhukhune described Brigadier Mathe as a highly qualified member who made her mark as a statistician and meticulously conducted her duties with diligence and professionalism. Furthermore, she worked very hard to climb up the ladder and continued to represent the component even after assuming her post in Limpopo. In conclusion, he said she would be remembered for accurately engaging with the Department of Transport and Community Safety, SAPS and stakeholders to disseminate the crime statistics. The SAPS Provincial Commissioner, Liutentenat General Thembi Hadebe described Brigadier Mathe as a shining example of selfless service and saluted her for respecting and submitting to authority. “I always felt proud and fortunate because whenever I tasked her, she was readily available and never disappointed. She was a true leader who stood firm and brave during challenges. She was very humble and respectful towards the management and allowed to be mentored and polished. She leaves behind three beautiful and strong children who must now accept that their mother’s chapter is closed. All is left for the family, colleagues and friends is to keep Nyanna’s memories alive and make her proud,” concluded Lieutenant General Hadebe. The MEC for Transport and Community Safety represented by Ms Manji Nhlane-Mthimkhulu: Chief Director of Provincial Secretariat for Police acknowledged and appreciated the exceptional work of the late Brigadier Mathe. The department extended deepest condolences to the bereaved family and SAPS family.
Brigadier MJ Malatjie from National Office: Crime Registrar announced the funeral service arrangements, adding that Brigadier Mathe will be laid to rest on Saturday, 10 July 2024 at Ga-Luka village in Rustenburg, North West Province.
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