Police head is a team player
Meet Richards Bay SAPS Station Commander, Brigadier Brenda Mgenge
RICHARDS Bay SAPS Station Commander, Brigadier Brenda Mgenge, believes combatting crime is not a one man show.
Mgenge says teamwork is vital and every police officer is instrumental in serving and protecting the community.
The dynamic and vibrant local hails from KwaMthethwa and has served in the force for 29 years.
The mother of two was the former Station Commander of KwaMbonambi Police Station and believes in maintaining relations at grassroots level.
She regularly takes time out from her leadership and administrative functions for operational duties, which helps keep her in touch with the community.
After joining the force in 1986, she took up different posts across the province and worked her way up the ranks.
‘Police work is my calling in life and I enjoy working with people, the community, my colleagues and creating a positive team spirit.
‘Our Community Policing Forums (CPF) are communication links between the SAPS and the community and I urge residents to get involved in their CPFs because together we can do more to fight crime.’
Balance
Mgenge says that family and career have to work hand-in-hand.
‘Family and work have to fuel each other. Having happy and loving relationships at home can help you execute your duties in the workplace more efficiently.
‘It is also important for policemen to explain their work to their families and help them understand the demands. We must invest in our families and support them just as we serve our communities.
‘As we spend so much of our time together, I treasure the men and women in blue as my family too.
‘I have an open door policy for both my colleagues and the community and I want them to feel free to approach me and raise their concerns.
‘I enjoy the operational aspect of our work and like to be out in the public and meet the people of our community.’
