New head for EMPD’s Benoni precinct appointed
The EMPD appointed a new precinct commander for Benoni on March 1.
According to EMPD media liaison officer for the southern region, Lieut Kobeli Mokheseng, Chief-Supt Patience Mafa has taken the reins at the CBD-based precinct.
Chief-Supt Jonas Mokhele Matjiu was the previous precinct commander in Benoni, though it is unclear when he was redeployed.
Before Mafa’s appointment, the City Times asked the EMPD about the absence of a commanding officer in Benoni and whether this could negatively affect service delivery in the town.
“We do not recall a day in history, where there was no service delivery in Benoni due to unavailability of a commanding officer,” said Mokheseng.
“We are not aware of any speed humps in the running of Benoni.
“Everyday duties are carried out as normal and there’s always a responsible person/s in charge.”
At the time of going to print, Mokheseng could not confirm when the previous precinct commander for Benoni left, or who it was.
Mokheseng said officials are often moved around within the EMPD, so that they can familiarise themselves with all the areas in Ekurhuleni.
Clr Jacques Meiring (Ward 27) said Matjiu was transferred late last year and a new one hasn’t been appointed until now.
Meiring said he’d experienced some trouble with speed of service from the EMPD since Matjiu left, but was grateful to have a new precinct commander in place.
“If we had problems, we had to go through the regional commander, which slows things down, as the commander is also busy,” Meiring said.
Reza Patel, Benoni CPF chairperson, said the gap of time between Matjiu’s departure and Mafa’s entry at the Benoni precinct hindered the CPF.
“It’s not unusual for the EMPD to change their commanders and have a vacancy for a period like this,” Patel said.
“The absence of a leader here caused service delivery failures.
“Hopefully this will be alleviated once a new precinct commander is in place.”
Patel could not comment on Mafa’s appointment at the time of going to print, as it had not been officially announced yet.
Also read:
Adopt a patroller to combat crime
Follow us on these platforms:
Like our Facebook page and follow us on Twitter.
For news straight to your phone invite us:
WhatsApp: 079 431 1217
Instagram: benonicitytimes.co.za
