Minister Bheki Cele and Deputy Minister Cassel Mathale joined the event to commend the dedication and hard work of police officers, reservists, and community patrol forum members throughout 2022 and 2023.

Among the standout recipients was sergeant Keshi Mabunda, recognized for his hard work in the investigation of Agnes Setshwantsho’s fraudulent funeral insurance claims. Mabunda’s relentless efforts not only earned him the police minister special award but also led to his promotion to the rank of captain. His track record also includes the successful apprehension of Rosemary Ndlovu on similar charges.

National police spokesperson, Brigadier Athlenda Mathe, said the theme of this year’s awards was “Encouraging innovation and rewarding excellence”. Mabunda, upon receiving his reward, said he was overwhelmed but that the award is motivation not only for himself but also for his fellow officers. He added that hard work and dedication pays off.

OFM News has previously reported that the case against Setshwantsho had been postponed until 28 March, for further investigation. Setshwantsho was arrested in Centurion on 16 November 2023, after Mabunda and a team of detectives received a tip from her relatives. Two bodies have been exhumed as part of the ongoing investigation.

In December 2023, OFM News also reported on the heightened security measures put in place for Mabunda due to his involvement in high-profile cases. Mathe told OFM News that Mabunda’s great work on these cases exposed his identity to potential suspects, which could endanger him. 

OFM News/Joba Matsheng