A police officer who saved a mother and child from a rampant domestic violence incident drove away with a brand-new car presented to him as a reward for his bravery.
Sgt. Masibulele Qinisile (41), a visible policing member attached to the Cacadu Police Station in the Chris Hani District, Eastern Cape, was presented the vehicle at the SAPS National Excellence awards ceremony held on 27 January at Lemo Mall in Bloemfontein.
Qinisile was crowned as this year’s Laureate Award Winner and National Commissioner’s Award recipient. This action earned him the prestigious prize of a brand-new vehicle.
He responded to a complaint where the perpetrator was holding his family hostage with a firearm. One of his crew members was disarmed during a confrontation with the suspect who started shooting at the officers. Qinisile showed courage under fire and engaged the suspect single-handedly, saving the the suspect’s wife and child, and his crew.
Every year in January, the police gather to celebrate outstanding performance, exceptional commitment and bravery displayed by its men and women in blue. This prestigious event serves as a powerful reminder that behind every accolade is a story of sacrifice, resilience and service – being a police officer is not merely a profession, but a calling.
This year’s event was held under the theme “Serving with integrity, celebrating excellence”. More than 350 top performers were awarded for going above and beyond the call of duty during the 11th National Excellence Awards.
There are more than 40 award categories, including: the Ministry’s Award; the National Commissioner’s Award; the award for operations member of the year; Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences (FCS) Investigator of the Year; Crime Intelligence member of the year; station of the year; and Forensic Services team of the year.
The acting minister of police, Firoz Cachalia, together with deputy ministers Dr Polly Boshielo and Cassel Mathale, and the national commissioner of the police, Gen. Fannie Masemola, were joined by senior police leadership and distinguished guests.
