On a chilly, wet evening, the electrifying energy inside the SAPS Humewood Annual Awards ceremony held at City Lodge on Friday night was palpable, as law enforcement officers let loose, danced, and celebrated their hard work and dedication.
The event honoured the outstanding achievements of the Humewood SAPS branch, a station that continues to set the bar high for excellence in law enforcement in the Nelson Mandela Bay District.
The evening began with a warm welcome from the Chairperson of the Humewood Community Police Forum (CPF), Kevin Slattery, who thanked stakeholders and acknowledged the critical role played by neighbourhood watches.
“Police cannot do anything without the community,” Slattery emphasised, highlighting the vital collaboration between law enforcement and local residents in combating crime.
The Station Commander of Humewood SAPS, Tamara Hlomza, expressed her gratitude and pride during the ceremony.
“This event marks the culmination of the hard work of all our officers. Despite challenges, tight deadlines, and unexpected circumstances, our team has made this day possible. It’s a testament to our commitment and the incredible support we receive from Sector 3, the Business Chamber, the community, and security companies,” Hlomza noted, highlighting the shared goals that unite the station with its partners.
Motivational speaker, Yolanda Singh, who works closely with SAPS through her role in social development, inspired attendees with her rousing speech.
“Everyone in this room is a reflection of excellence,” Singh said. Praising the professionalism and dedication of SAPS officers, she reminded them that their work is valued and urged them not to suffer in silence. “Injury to one is an injury to all. The work you do is not in vain,” Singh added, reinforcing the camaraderie within the law enforcement community.
Major General Vuyisile Ncata, District Commissioner for Nelson Mandela Bay, commended the Humewood SAPS management for their leadership and commitment to getting results. Acknowledging the high demands of the district, one of the busiest in the province due to elevated crime rates, Ncata praised the station’s achievements. “Humewood is a perfect example of collaboration between the police and the community. They’ve raised the bar by being the first station to hold their own excellence awards,” he said. Ncata also shared uplifting news: the National Commissioner has committed to providing additional motorbikes to the Humewood branch, further enhancing their ability to fight crime.
The highlight of the event was the recognition of the exceptional officers whose dedication has made a remarkable impact. Winners, referred to as “extraordinary from the ordinary”, were encouraged to truly appreciate the honour and celebrate their accomplishments. “Recognise the positives of your station and boast about your achievements. Commitment and dedication have no expiration date,” General Ncata said.
As the night progressed, the celebratory atmosphere was unmissable, with officers and attendees dancing, laughing, and celebrating the shared success of the station.
In the words of Station Commander Hlomza, the night encapsulated “the hard work, resilience, and unity” that define the Humewood SAPS, leaving everyone inspired to raise the bar even higher.
