Tears flowed and emotions ran high as colleagues, friends and family gathered for the farewell party of Captain Fadila September who served in the police for 33 years.
“I can honestly say that she has served with complete professionalism, dedication and loyalty,” said Brigadier Donovan Heilbron, Overberg Deputy District Commissioner. “She has truly become a household name in the communities she served.”
To further illustrate this, Sergeant JP Thomas, shared a short anecdote of a child who, while play-fighting with a friend, threatened: “If you hurt me, I will call Captain Seppie!”
He added: “That is the impact she has had. The children know her name and look up to her.”
Captain Edmund Abels highlighted September’s dedication especially to children.
“When I worked as a detective with Child Protection Services, September was always the one we called when we needed help,” he stated.
“Nobody will be able to take your place – your concern, your love and motherly instincts are what we will miss most.”
Colonel Gustav Tamboer, Hermanus Police Station commander, stated that September’s retirement is a big loss not only for the police service but also the communities she served.
“In my short time in Hermanus I discovered that she is well-known and loved because she served with pride and dignity. Let us take her legacy forward. Although she is retiring from the police service we will still make use of her services as her influence in the community is set.”
Eddie Holloway, former Hermanus CPF chair, with whom September often worked closely, concluded: “Your post may be filled, but replacing you is impossible.”
