EMPD in Edenvale precinct will fall under new leadership after four EMPD operations division directorship posts were filled. The positions were filled at the start of April after the respective chief superintendents were promoted.
These appointments come after several years of the positions being vacant.
“The delay of filling these positions was caused by the rationalisation of the EMPD structure,” said EMPD spokesperson Chief Supt Wilfred Kgasago.
“The structure displayed specific anomalies and required modifications.”
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The newly appointed directors have 91 years of operational experience between them.
With 16 years of experience, Gwen Nonkululeko Gina will be responsible for EMPD’s Northern Operational Region which includes Edenvale, Kempton Park and Tembisa.
Since EMPD’s inception in 2002, she is the second woman to be appointed as a director.
Gina originally worked as a clerk at the city’s municipal courts before joining EMPD.
Appointed as the director of specialised services, Julius Doctor Mkhwanazi will be responsible for the K9, SWAT, equestrian, public order policing, OR Tambo International Airport and overloads units.
Starting as a constable 17 years ago Mkhwanazi worked his way up from the rank of constable. His units will operate throughout the city.
Ockert Jacobus Bezuidenhout, who has 26 years’ experience, will be responsible for the Southern Operational Region.
This region includes Alberton, Tokoza, Germiston, Katlehong Zonkizizwe, Boksburg, Reiger Park, Vosloorus, Villa Lisa and Dawn Park.
Lastly, the responsibility of by-law enforcement will fall upon the shoulders of Hezekiel Ngamlane Nkosi and will be conducted across the city.
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Starting at the former Benoni Council, Nkosi has 32 years of law enforcement experience.
“We are elated that directors with such rich experience are occupying these crucial positions,” said chief of police Isaac Jabulani Mapiyeye.
“Their experience will stand them in good stead in their responsibilities to contribute in making the EMPD function efficiently and effectively.”
Mapiyeye said EMPD believes that while directors fulfil their duties, they will share skills they acquired over the years to other officers.
