Shongwe awards Tactical Response Team (TRT)

Media Statement
05 September 2011

Mpumalanga Safety, Security and Liaison MEC Vusi Shongwe has recognised the now famous SAPS’ Tactical Response Team (TRT) with the MEC’s Special Excellence Award saying the Unit contributed greatly in the reduction of crime in Mpumalanga.

The MEC awarded the Unit for good performance with a trophy and certificates during award-giving ceremony on 02 September in Secunda.

The MEC’s Excellence Awards ceremony is organised annually by the department to award good performing police officers and stations in Mpumalanga province.

Shongwe reiterated his statement that he would always support the TRT regardless of individuals complaining about its brutality in fighting crime.

He said that since the TRT had been introduced, crime has declined in the province because of the unit’s good work.

“I will put cotton wool and not listen to people who go to taverns and do unlawful things and then complain about the police. I can only intervene when police have ill-treated the people in the churches,” said Shongwe.

He praised the police in the province adding that they did not only provide police related service, but also brought hope to the people of Mpumalanga.

“Through our Overall Friday campaign, we made numerous successes when conducted operations such as stop and search, road blocks and raiding of taverns.

“Together with the police, we were able to arrest wanted rape suspects who were on the run for a very long time, we were able to arrest highly dangerous wanted suspects, we were able to recover stolen vehicles and confiscated dangerous weapons,” added Shongwe.

This year’s Provincial Overall Best Performing Station Awards was scooped by Malelane Police Station headed by a female commander.

Another Ehlanzeni District Municipality based police station, Schoemansdal, was named the runner-up.

Meanwhile, Mpumalanga SAPS Provincial Commissioner Thulani Ntobela appreciated Shongwe’s efforts of boosting the police officers’ morale.

“Through your assistance, it has been possible for the police to bring down crime tremendously. We are looking forward to continue improve the situation in the province with your support,” Ntobela told Shongwe.

Issued by Mpumalanga Department of Safety, Security and Liaison, Communication Directorate

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