Top promotion for Bellair cop
Paul de Waal was recently promoted as branch commander and head of the detective branch for Bellair police station.
AFTER enjoying a career spanning more than 30 years, Paul de Waal, is delighted to be promoted to branch commander and head of the detective branch for Bellair police station.
He joined the police force in 1984 and spent four years working before he left and re-joined in 1990.
“I am a policeman through and through. I tried the private sector and it wasn’t for me. It is always a cliché that I am against this and that but it’s exactly what it is. People often say there are no prospects as a police officer, but it is what I am passionate about. If I were not a police at heart, I would not be sitting here 30 years later.
“I try to make a difference in the community. I was promoted to the rank of warrant officer in 1996 and subsequently applied for different posts over years but I was not successful. When this post came up, I applied for the position of branch commander head of the detective branch for Bellair SAPS and was shortlisted,” said de Waal.
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The 55-year-old feels incredibly proud of his accomplishments and said it was a long road to achieve his goals.
“I was despondent after spending many years as a warrant officer and usually people often resign and retire but I stuck it out. I have just a few years left before I can retire and this is a nice way to end my career. It is an achievement and I’m quite chuffed,” he added.
Despite holding the position for a short period, de Waal has already implemented positive changes to the station.
“I have already made it known that gender-based violence will not be tolerated in the community. If a case is opened and allegations of women or child abuse are made, we will expedite the matter within days. We will arrest the suspects and make sure the courts deal with them accordingly. Bellair SAPS will not tolerate any form of gender-based violence. We have three investigating officers in our branch who are women and it is very close to home for all of our members.
“The area sees a huge issue regarding the theft of copper especially along the railway lines and water pipes stolen from residential areas. The pipes are sold to illegal scrap dealers. The resident’s response, and working alongside police, especially during the looting period last year was amazing and we should try to work together more often,” said the Escombe resident.
When asked what is the most rewarding aspect of being a police officer, the family orientated man said, “Helping people and putting criminals behind bars is what makes being a police officer worthwhile. The hardest part of the job is that not only are you a police officer but you are a psychologist, doctor and all-rounder for victims.”
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De Waal has been married to Louanne for 35 years. The couple has one son and two granddaughters.
“I love my family life and my wife is my be-all and end-all. When I am not working or spending time with my family, I enjoy playing lawn bowls and I’m a member of Queensburgh bowling club,” he added.
His message to the youth that is interested in joining SAPS is, “It is not an easy job and one must only do it if they are passionate about fighting crime. We need more honest, hardworking youngsters to join the police force,” said de Waal.
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