Claremont Police Station commander Lt Col Maree Louw says discipline, integrity and community support have shaped her 37-year career in policing. Interestingly, Col Maree Louw’s police career spans almost four decades and is defined by these values. “Thirty seven years feels like yesterday,” she says. Joining the South African police in 1989 at the height of apartheid, Louw began her career as a constable and has since spent 19 years as a station commander, including postings in Bredasdorp and Claremont.
She plans to retire in April 2028. “I was just learning the ropes yesterday. I would never be able to do this job without the community. I cannot fight crime alone. I need the community to assist us in doing that.”
Louw describes the role of station commander as a “hot seat”, saying it was less about rank and more about accountability and daily responsibility. “I am proud of being a colonel and a station commander, but the work is about function and accountability, not the title,” she says. For Col Maree Louw, her career in the police was always focused on accountability above all else.
Louw’s career has spanned major political and institutional transitions. Notably, the trajectory of Col Maree Louw’s police career reflects the evolution of South African policing through dramatic changes.
She joined the police as part of the first group of people of colour stationed at the gates of Parliament. “It was very strict, and there was a lot of discrimination against female officers.” According to Louw, women officers were paid less than men and did not qualify for housing allowance. “Women could not fall pregnant without a husband. If they did they were dismissed.” Standing at murder scenes, particularly those involving women, remained one of the most difficult aspects of her work, presenting ongoing challenges in Col Maree Louw’s police career.
Two cases in particular left a lasting impact on her. In 2013, while serving as station commander in Bredasdorp, Louw led the station during the investigation into the murder of Anene Booysen, a case that drew international attention and resulted in two life sentences. In reflecting on her police career, Col Maree Louw often points to such landmark cases as deeply formative.
After her move to Claremont she was again confronted with tragedy during the murder of student Uyinene Mrwetyana at the local post office. “I questioned myself. It hit me really hard.” This incident was another defining moment in the police career of Col Maree Louw.
Despite the challenges Louw said policing had shaped her beyond the uniform. “I am more disciplined in my eating habits, my fitness and my finances. I focus on my well-being.” She is training in martial arts. Crucially, this dedication is a hallmark of Col Maree Louw’s police career, both in and outside work.
Community engagement remains central, and Louw employs an open-door policy. “Community members are welcome to come to me with their complaints and concerns.” Integrity, discipline and passion she emphasised among officers under her command.”I hope my last two years make an impact in the community.” In summary, the commitment within Col Maree Louw’s police career has left a meaningful legacy in local law enforcement.
