AWARDING OF SOUTH AFRICAN POLICE SERVICE GOLD CROSS FOR BRAVERY AND SILVER CROSS BRAVERY MEDALS

PRETORIA: As an honourable tribute in recognition of deeds of bravery performed in extremely dangerous circumstances, the National Commissioner of South African Police, General Bheki Cele, will proffer SAPS Gold Cross Bravery medals to Lieutenant Colonel S. Williams and Warrant Officer P.G. Odendaal.

The duo was traveling on the Kliprivier Highway, outside Booysens, Johannesburg, when they noticed a panel van that had just collided against the pillar of the bridge of Swartkoppies Road. Albeit, these members were off duty, they made a U-turn and attended the scene. On arrival, they noticed five occupants who were trapped inside the vehicle which was catching fire.

As they tried to gain access to the van, they realised that it would be impossible since the door handle was out of reach and the flame was flaring up. Eventually, they managed to open the door and pulled-out all occupants who were trapped inside the burning vehicle. The victims including a six-year-old boy were rescued and the van burned beyond recognition.     

On the same event, the Minister will also bestow Constable A.D. Mc Lean and student Constable J.G. Michael with SAPS Silver Cross Bravery medals. It was after they have received a call to a house on fire in Elsies River, Western Cape. They swiftly responded and entered a burning house with occupants.

Unfortunately, the mother succumbed to the tragedy but a four-year-old girl was saved from a blazing fire that destroyed their house. She was hospitalized and underwent two skin graft operations. Student Constable Michael sustained slight burns to his hands.

These members will receive accolades for going beyond the call of duty by managing to rescue the victims of unforeseen circumstances. This is a visible outcome of the ambassadorship campaign that encourages police members to be humane servants of the community. They will remain exemplary to all SAPS members in the pushing forward of the "Batho Pele Principles".

National Commissioner, General Bheki Cele, applauds the valiant act of the members. "We commend such a gallant action they have demonstrated to the community. We are proud to have people of their calibre within our organisation. Their action signifies good ambassadorship that represents the police service of this country," he said.  

Statement issued by Colonel Tummi Shai, SAPS national media centre, April 7 2011

Click here to sign up to receive our free daily headline email newsletter