Lieutenant Colonel Mzoxolo Livi officially took the reins as newly appointed detective branch head at Somerset West Police Station in January this year.
He succeeds Lieutenant Colonel Sizakele Hantibi, who held the position for the past six years.
At the police station, a reserved and stoic Livi expressed his diehard determination to uphold the constitution as mandated by the South African Police Service.
Livi elaborated that his vision is one that aligns with that of the police force, which is to maintain public order, protect citizens and putting shoulder to the wheel to investigate reported crimes.
“Implementation involves adhering to the oath I took upon joining the police force and aligning with the existing SAPS vision.”
Lieutenant Colonel Mzoxolo Livi, newly appointed detective branch head at Somerset West Police Station.
Hailing from the Eastern Cape, Livi began his career as a police officer after graduating from the police training college in Philippi. He commenced his field training as a student constable at Kraaifontein Police Station for six months before transitioning to detective work. Within a short period, he was assigned to the Serious and Violent Crimes unit at Kraaifontein.
In 2015, Livi joined the provincial police task team specialising in serious and violent crime investigations. The following year, he was promoted from constable to warrant officer at the Forensic Science Laboratory in Plattekloof. In 2018, he achieved the rank of captain and assumed the role of subsection commander for Serious and Violent Crimes at Athlone Police Station.
In 2021, Livi was seconded to the national political task team in Durban. Upon his return to the provincial level, he served as commander of political-related cases. Prior to his current position, he again served as subsection commander, with the rank of captain, in Athlone.
Regarding his swift career advancement, Livi offered a simple, understated response: “I work.”
When questioned about his leadership approach, Livi emphasised his direct communication style and unwavering adherence to procedure and guidelines.
“There are established standards,” he stated. “Deviating from those standards constitutes a breach of conduct.”
As a public servant, his focus remains on fulfilling his duties as detective head and fostering a high-performing team. He prioritises teamwork, effective communication, and strong interpersonal skills, recognising these as essential components for success.
Livi emphasised his commitment to community service, stating: “Our community is our first priority. I am here to serve, not for personal gain. As public servants, our fundamental duty is to the community. Our results must speak for themselves. By dedicating ourselves to our daily work, we will demonstrate our commitment and make a tangible difference. We must also be responsive to the community’s needs. I maintain an open-door policy and encourage residents to contact me directly on my official number, which is 082 778 7339. This number is for the community, and I am available to anyone while at the station.”
Regarding plans to enhance community engagement, Sergeant Suzan Jantjies, spokesperson for the Somerset West police, outlined the intention to strengthen collaboration with the established Community Policing Forum (CPF). Additionally, they aim to proactively publicise successful police operations, including arrests, convictions, and sentences, to bolster both community trust and staff morale.
Furthermore, Livi intends to have his ear on the ground, finger on the pulse. “I look forward to serving the community of Somerset West, where I plan to make my mark as a man of action and an operational member doing the groundwork,” said Livi.
He further assured the community: “We are here for you. I am here to serve you.”
