August 13, 2026
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Caption: Mpumalanga Provincial Police Commissioner, Lt-Gen Nkankoane Apaphia Modise

By Kopano Dibakwane
Mpumalanga will not tolerate GBVF (Gender-Based Violence and Femicide).
This is the firm stance expressed by the newly appointed Provincial Police Commissioner, Lieutenant-General Nkankoane Apaphia Modise as the country commemorates National Women’s Day on 9 August 2026.
Lt-Gen Modise was making her first public address since she officially resumed her duties in the new position on 1 August 2026, taking over the reigns from Major-General (Dr)Zeph Mkhwanazi, who has reportedly led Mpumalanga SAPS (South African Police Service) as Acting Provincial Commissioner for two years.
Lt-Gen Modise is pledging to protect women and vulnerable groups in the province, in a bid to create a safer society for the citizens of the Place of the Rising Sun.
“I address the people of Mpumalanga and members of the SAPS for the very first time in my capacity as the Provincial Commissioner of the South African Police Service in Mpumalanga. I do so with a profound sense of responsibility, humility and commitment to serving the people of this province,” said Lt-Gen Modise.
She said the courage of the women who marched in 1956 must guide police work today, and also assured the public that the men and women of the SAPS in Mpumalanga honor the courage and sacrifice of the women of 1956 who marched in pursuit of dignity, equality and a better South Africa.
“Their bravery remains an enduring symbol of resilience and determination. As members of SAPS, that same courage must inspire us every day as we put on the uniform and serve our communities,” said Lt-Gen Modise.
“Every member, in every police station, unit and component across Mpumalanga is called upon, from Gert Sibande District to Ehlanzeni District and Nkangala District, to remain steadfast, focused and diligent in the execution of duties. As Police, our responsibility is clear: to protect, to serve with integrity, and to ensure that no woman, child or vulnerable person is left to face violence alone,” said Lt-Gen Modise.

The General has assured the public that SAPS will not tolerate any form of misconduct within its ranks.

“We must lead by example and uphold the highest standards of professionalism, compassion and discipline. These values must define the manner in which the people of Mpumalanga experience and judge our service.

“To the communities of Mpumalanga, GBVF (Gender-Based Violence and Femicide) continues to inflict deep pain on our families and communities. To the survivors, we will continue to listen to you and stand with you. To those living in fear, know that you are not alone, we are here for you,” said Lt-Gen Modise.

“As your Provincial Commissioner, I give you my assurance that when you come forward to report a crime, you will be treated with dignity and respect. We will listen. We will take your reports seriously. We will investigate every case with diligence and work closely with the National Prosecution Authority (NPA) and the courts to ensure that perpetrators of crimes against women are arrested, prosecuted and brought to justice,” she said.

Lt-Gen Modise has encouraged victims and witnesses not to suffer in silence, and to visit their nearest police stations, where VFFs (Victim Friendly Facilities) are available to provide support and assistance.

“Every report matter, and every life matters. As we commemorate Women’s Day this year, let us renew our collective commitment to building a safer Mpumalanga for women, because a safer Mpumalanga for women is a safer Mpumalanga for all. Together with our community partners, traditional leaders and civil society organisations, SAPS will continue to intensify the fight against GBVF until it is eradicated,” she said.

“I am honored to lead this organisation at this important time, and I am committed to earning the trust and confidence of both our members and the communities we serve through decisive action and accountable leadership.” Lt-Gen Modise concluded.

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