By Lwazi Raul-Shongwe and Kopano Dibakwane
Nine Mpumalanga traffic law officers from DCSSL(Department of Community Safety, Security and Liaison) were amongst the 69 fallen officers from all nine provinces whose lives were remembered on World Remembrance Day ceremony, held at Boekenhoutkloof Traffic College, in Pretoria.
The ceremony, led Gauteng Premier-Panyaza Lesufi and Deputy Minster of Transport-Mkhuleko Hlengwa, was attended by relatives and colleagues of the deceased officers, including Transport and Community Safety MEC’s from various provinces.
Families of the traffic law enforcement officers who lost their lives on duty since 2018 until this year, attended the wreath-laying ceremony and were reportedly presented with tokens of appreciation.
DCSSL said, in a statement, the day was used to celebrate the lives of traffic law enforcement officers who died whilst ensuring safety of all road users and trying to prevent road crashes.
Deputy Minister, Hlengwa, emphasised that more should be done to reduce crashes on the road. He added that World Remembrance Day is not only to remember road accident victims, but to appreciate and show gratitude towards the unwavering commitment, courage and selflessness of officers.
“ Each day, law enforcement officers put on their uniforms, knowing the risks they face. They answer the call to serve with dedication, often without hesitation, and always with a sense of duty to protect other,” Hlengwa said.
According DCSSL, 69 traffic law enforcement officers from various provinces have passed away in the line of duty. Among the 69, Mpumalanga Province lost 9 officers.
The names of the fallen Mpumalanga DCSSL law enforcement officers are;
• Nontobeko Innocentia Mlangeni
• Maria Marule
• Gijimane July Nzimande
• Henry Benjamin Ngwamba
• Jubilance Vincent Ngomane
• Joel Mashila Matshapala
• Joel Mandla Masango
• Sibusiso Christopher Ndimande
• Norman Mpumelelo Simelane
