Alberton SAPS Sergeant flourishes as officer and as runner

Sergeant Melomong Mahlase of Alberton SAPS has his eyes set on making it in the world of sport and sweeping crime off the streets of Alberton.

He is engineered to bring lasting change in society and is now reaching even greater heights as a runner.

In what initially started off as a mere hobby, the future looks bright for Mahlase who is adamant on succeeding in the sport.

Not only is Mahlase known for combating crime and upholding the law, he is now counted among promising runners in the sport.

After taking part in numerous races, he recently ran the the Comrades Marathon which he completed in 8:49.

After competing in the ultramarathon he was honoured by Alberton SAPS station commander Colonel Olven Letloenyane, who presented him with a certificate of appreciation.

“Running was introduced to me by a friend. I went to their training and found it very interesting. I started to run with them on weekends and they then encouraged me to register for the marathon. I later took part in a marathon in Benoni, and was also encouraged to join the Comrades,” he explained.

Having been his first time competing in the Comrades, he said this was a ‘difficult race’, although he persevered till the end.

“Along the way it was very difficult, my body was no longer responding and I had to cool down. At the moment I’m trying to grow as a runner to compete for more and bigger races. I’m now looking forward to taking part in the Sanlam Marathon as I grow in the sport,” he said.

To serve and protect

The long distance runner, Mahlase, holds at least 14 years’ experience as a police officer.

“I started to work at Secunda Flying Squad carrying out my duties in highway patrols, and I was then transferred to Alberton SAPS in 2013. I started to work as an Investigating Officer in this new environment, under the rank of Constable,” he said.

Determined to make a name for himself, with his head held high, he worked his way up the ladder before occupying the rank of Sergeant in 2020.

“I have always wanted to be in the force. Before joining SAPS I tried applying at in the air force, unfortunately things didn’t go well. I kept trying to join the army and SAPS, until I later received a life changing opportunity at SAPS. The main goal was to serve in the force,” Mahlase said.

Having been an officer he has received accolades for having made a lasting impact in society and carries numerous successes under his name. He is also strongly passionate about curbing commercial crime.