GEORGE NEWS - The Garden Route District's Police Commissioner, Major General Phumzile Cetyana, hosted a media briefing at the district offices in George on Monday 13 April to introduce the newly appointed and promoted station commanders and other senior personnel.
Four station commanders have taken up posts at Pacaltsdorp, Heidelberg, Da Gamaskop and Uniondale.
Warrant Officer Constance Sedumedi was introduced as head of support services in Calitzdorp, while a team of investigators has been assigned to the district following a re-enlistment process.
Cetyana said the briefing aimed to inform the public about recent staffing changes. He said several vacancies had been filled over the past months following rigorous recruitment and vetting processes. The appointments came into effect on 1 March, with the members also completing a one-week induction at the police college.
The newly appointed station commanders are Lieutenant Colonel Malcolm Richards (Pacaltsdorp), Lieutenant Colonel Bongiwe Mthulu (Heidelberg), Colonel Thembisile Senaya (Da Gamaskop) and Lieutenant Colonel Lindelwa Ndletyana (Uniondale). Captain Yolande Spocter, a retired member, was appointed as the Garden Route District detectives' operations officer.
Responding to queries on discipline and performance management, Cetyana said they follow a strict disciplinary code with progressive measures. In serious cases, members may face suspension without pay or dismissal, including expedited processes for criminal conduct. Performance is monitored through annual agreements and structured evaluation systems.
On cold case investigations, Spocter said the district's 21 stations require a systematic approach, although priority cases may be addressed where necessary.
Richards also addressed community relations following some concerns raised in Pacaltsdorp, saying the area is supported by Public Order Policing and additional resources. He added that the engagement efforts include improved communication channels, safer schools programmes and regular community imbizos.
A task team has also been established to address extortion-related crimes, which are an emerging concern in the district.
On the rotation of station commanders, Cetyana acknowledged concerns about continuity in certain areas, but said the appointments fall under the provincial commissioner. He added that operational stability is maintained despite personnel changes.
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