Being a police officer is not just about fighting crime and arresting suspects. Sometimes, the SAPS need to be compassionate and show that we really care about the safety of our community even more so when the client in need of assistance is a senior citizen.

On Saturday, 28 August 2021, Constables Sandiso Makaula and Warren Gerber of SAPS Kwazakele Social Crime Prevention responded to a call for assistance at a house in Sodolophu Street in Soweto-On-Sea. On arrival, neighbours informed them that an elderly 76 year old woman was neglected and left inside the house by her family who never visits. It was further alleged that the neighbours had been feeding the woman for some time.

Immediately, these two officers made contact with the Ekuphumleni Old Age Home in Booi Street and requested accommodation for the woman until her predicament is sorted out. The social worker was also contacted for further intervention. SAPS Kwazakele members will be working closely with the Department of Social Development and the local councillor with the aim of locating the family and making sure that the woman’s rights, security, well-being and safety is taken care of.

SAPS Kwazakele Station Commander, Brig Lindelwa Vellem commended her officials for their swift response and reaction in making sure that the elderly woman is not left alone for yet another day. “Knowing your community and building strong relationships with them, is crucial when urgent assistance is required. The unconditional support received from Ekuphumleni Old Age Home is heart-warming as they quickly rallied around and made space for this woman. The protection of the vulnerable is not the responsibility of the police alone but also that of communities and we appreciate their efforts in looking out for one another. As we celebrate women’s month, we urge women to unite, empower, encourage and support each other and never to suffer in silence,” added Brig Vellem.

Source: South African Police Service