MEC for Transport, Safety and Liaison, Weziwe Tikana-Gxothiwe, handed over certificates, as tokens of appreciation, to more than 100 SAPS members who have been deployed in Bityi and the surrounding areas, outside Mthatha, last week.
It has been four months since the team was deployed, as a response to numerous cries from stock owners, and as a result of this deployment, there have been successes in the recovery of stolen stock, along with illegal firearms and ammunition.
Tikana-Gxothiwe expressed gratitude at the work done by the SAPS members.
“I am standing here very proud of the work that has been done in this place. We thank all of you for the sacrifice you have made, for the sleepless nights spent and for risking your own lives for the safety and security of these communities,” she said.
She further commended SAPS management for their clear and effective guidance in the fight against crime. Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant General Liziwe Ntshinga, said this place was a playground and battlefield for hardened criminals.
She said it used to be a haven for stock thieves but with the overwhelming support of the community, they had been able to clean their villages of criminality.
“Bityi is no longer the same and is now a peaceful zone for the law-abiding citizens.”
The King of Abathembu, King Buyelekhaya Dalindyebo, also commended the police.
“You have outdone yourselves. As a result I am going to come back and thank you on behalf of Abathembu Kingdom,” the message from Dalindyebo said.
– ISSUED BY SAPS
